Father Albertus Herwanta, O. Carm
Introduction
Does God notice small good deeds we perform? Today's readings offer an answer. The first reading and the Gospel speak of the reward received by those who welcome God's messengers, whether prophets or righteous ones. How can we understand it and apply it in our daily lives?
Hospitality That Bears a Miracle
The account in 2 Kings 4 begins with a wealthy woman in Shunem. She and her husband voluntarily prepare a small upper room for the prophet Elisha. She expects nothing in return; she is moved simply by a heart attentive to the needs of God's servant. Yet God does not remain silent. Elisha asks his servant Gehazi what can be done to repay her kindness. It turns out the Shunammite is barren, and her husband is old. The prophet then delivers this promise: "At this time next year, you shall hold a son in your arms." Her reward is not money or wealth, but a child—a blessing surpassing all treasure. She serves out of faith, and God responds with abundant grace.
The Significance of Rewards Given to the Prophet and the Righteous
Our Lord Jesus expands this principle. Matthew 10:37–42 is part of his instruction when sending out the Twelve. He says, "Whoever welcomes a prophet as a prophet will receive a prophet's reward, and whoever welcomes a righteous person as a righteous person will receive a righteous person's reward." What does this verse mean? Jesus teaches that God notices not only great ministries, but also small acts done in faith. That reward is not always material; it can be spiritual joy, growth in faith, deeper communion with God, or treasure in heaven (Matthew 6:20). The point is that when we welcome a messenger of God, we share in God's work through that messenger. We receive the "prophet's reward" because we partake in the blessings that accompany the prophet's ministry.
Practical Application: Faithfulness in Small Things
This reflection invites us to examine our lives. Are we attentive to the needs of God's servants around us? We may not need to provide a room, but simply pray, offer moral support, or share material resources. Such deeds may seem small, yet in God's eyes they merit a heavenly reward. Never tire of doing charitable deeds. The Lord sees every heart's intention. If we act out of love for him and recognize his call upon those he sends, we too receive the same reward: communion with God and his favor.
Conclusion
Both the story of the Shunammite woman and Jesus' teaching illustrate that God is never late in repaying goodness done in faith. The reward of the prophet and the reward of the righteous are not merely a future recompense but also a present reality—we live in the presence of God, who sees, accompanies, and sustains us. Are we ready to welcome God's messengers with open hearts? For by serving them, we truly serve the Lord himself. And the reward of all this is to know him more closely and to experience his unending love. (*)