COMMENTARY

Old Testament: 2 Kings 4:8-17
Elisha's promise of a child to a barren woman is fulfilled. Similar to Abraham and Sarah, and Hannah and Elkanah, a wealthy woman is given a child for no other reason than Elisha's gratitude for her and her husband's kind hospitality. Elisha often stayed in the home of this nameless couple in Shunem as he went on his travels. The lady suggested to her husband that they add a room to their house for the use of Elisha. They built and furnished it. To express his gratitude, Elisha asked her if she would like him to put in a good word to the king or commander of the army. As a rich and prominent woman, she did not need that. Elisha's servant reminded him that they were childless. He called the woman back and promised her that by this time next year sh…