2 Kings 4:8-17 – The truth about being hospitable

In 2 Kings 4:8-17, we see another miracle of Elisha. There was a prominent barren lady in Shunem who had an old husband and was childless. Convinced that Elisha was a man of God, she invited him to a meal when he was passing Shunem. Since that first meal, every time Elisha passed that city, he would stop over for a meal with her.  She was so hospitable that she discussed with her husband about building a room in the upper chamber of their home, complete with a bed, a table, a chair, and a lampstand to accommodate him every time he came by. Her intention was to provide the prophet a comfortable resting place. Obviously, the lady did not have any need except that she and her husband were childless.

One day Elisha stopped over and checked into the room that had been provided by that lady and her husband. After he had rested, he summoned his servant Gehazi. Having experienced the warm hospitality of the lady, Elisha wanted to do something for her. So he sent Gehazi to find out what she would like him to do for her. Instructed by Elisha, Gehazi told her that she had indeed been very hospitable and caring. Then she was asked if there was something that she wanted Elisha to do for her. The prophet was even prepared to talk to the king or the captain of the army to get her a position or protection. But she wanted neither. For she was contented with her simple life. All she wanted was to live humbly among her people.

Elisha then enquired of Gehazi about what could be done for her. The servant responded by saying that she had no son, and her husband was old. Immediately, Elisha knew what he could do for her. She was summoned and as she stood at the doorway, Elisha said to her,  “At this season next year you will embrace a son.” Unbelievingly she responded by telling Elisha not to lie to her.  But verse 17 said that “The woman conceived and bore a son at that season the next year, as Elisha had said to her.”

We learn here that being generous and hospitable, especially toward servants of God, will not go unrewarded. When we sow kindness and generosity, we will reap the same and much more. The law of cause and effect or the law of reciprocity always takes effect. This was seen in the life of this lady from Shunem. In the New Testament, believers are also exhorted to show hospitality. This is a good practice. For in serving others, especially the needy, Christ said that we would in effect be serving Him. First Peter 4:9 exhorts us saying “Be hospitable to one another without complaint.” Let’s show New Testament hospitality and be assured that our kindness will beget kindness in return.