Today's readings are 2 Kings 5.9-27 ( http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=2+Kings+5.9-27 ) and Philippians 1.1-20 ( http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=Phil.+1.1-20 ).
In 2 Kings we read of Elisha's healing of Naaman the leper, one of the prophetic miracles Jesus refers to in the Gospels. See how our Lord does not care for important and noble places and the trappings of kingship, but instead works through application of humble means to bring about his grace.
Likewise, in Philippians when we see that the Lord will bring the good work he began in us to completion, let us not look for something IMPORTANT (I used big letters on purpose) but simply for something good. Whatever means our Lord has chosen for our sanctification, for directing our paths in righteousness, for showing us our sin and driving us to repentance - those means are fine.
Let us also wonder today at the humble means that Jesus has given for our salvation and ongoing sanctification. He has not conquered sin by overt force. He has conquered sin by laying down his own life. He has taken up his life again and used it not to smite his enemies at this time but to impart life to us who believe. And he has given us very concrete means of grace in baptism and communion, imparting faith and nourishing our faith.
Thanks be to our Lord who uses simple means to accomplish his great and gracious works!
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