The Shunammite woman from the town of Shunem was a great woman. (II Kings 4: 8-37) She was probably from the tribe of Issachar. (Joshua 19:17-18)
1) Spiritual discernment: The Shunammite woman had a spiritual discernment to understand Elisha as a holy man of God, a prophet.
2) Generous hospitality: Elisha used to make a circuit trip throughout Israel doing his ministry. He had the privilege of staying in this home and was provided for. Yet, the Shunammite woman wanted to honour the prophet and God by showing greater generosity.
3) Emphatic provision: She proposed to her husband, how they would build a room with a bed, table, chair and a lamp. (II Kings 4:10) It was not just a bed and breakfast room.
4) Blessed with a son: Elisha wanted to respond to the generosity with some blessings for her. As Elisha came to know that that she did not have a child, he prophesied that she will have a child the next year. God blessed her with a son. (II Kings 4:11-17)
5) Astounding faith: The child grew up, several years after birth, died of an unknown disease on his mother’s lap. The boy was laid on Elisha’s bed and she travelled 20 miles to Mount Carmel. Elisha came: “Then he went up and lay on the child, putting his mouth on his mouth, his eyes on his eyes, and his hands on his hands. And as he stretched himself upon him, the flesh of the child became warm. Then he got up again and walked once back and forth in the house, and went up and stretched himself upon him. The child sneezed seven times, and the child opened his eyes.” (II Kings 4:34,35)
6) Obedience: When Elisha suggested she shift to Philistine territory during famine, she obeyed. (II Kings 8:1-6) When she returned, appealed to the king for return of her house and land. Gehazi happened to share her testimony at the very moment. The king restored her possessions.
7) Enduring legacy: “Women received back their dead by resurrection.” (Hebrews 11:35)
Is my faith expressed in hospitality?