We tend to forget that, if we are the people of God, the prophets are speaking to—and generally correcting—us. This is why Jesus reminds his hometown hearers, at the beginning of his public ministry, that the ones who received the word of the prophet and were fed and healed were not the people of God, but the Sidonite widow, who responded to Elijah’s word with faith, and Naaman the Syrian general, who ultimately responded to Elisha’s word with humility.

Scripture readings referenced:

* Luke 4:14-30

* Isaiah 61:1-2a

* I Kings 17:8-16

* II Kings 5:1-14

Inspired, in part, by my grandfather’s poem, “He Closed the Book”.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit translatingthetradition.substack.com