The Sunday Sermonette – Hobbits and Lepers.

     “In a hole in the ground, there lived a Hobbit.” Like any good writer, J.R.R. Tolkien knew that an eye-catching opening sentence is what captures a reader’s curiosity. In his “Lord of the Rings” saga, the reader instantly wonders what a Hobbit is, and why it lives in a hole in the ground.

     While finding the answers to these initial questions, Tolkien skillfully leads his readers into a fantastical world filled with elves and warriors, princes, as well as ogres and mystics. Living amongst these fairy-tale creatures are four dwarf-like Hobbits. They are known for their hairy feet, but possess no particular strengths or skills, other than loving peace and tranquility. Yet, the unassuming Hobbits are the heroes of Tolkien’s story, setting the forces of good against evil.

     Tolkien knew enough about the Good Book to understand that Father God seldom uses the powerful to bring about His purposes. He does, however, use everyday people to combat evil, pitting the humble against it to complete His will. In the Old Testament, Father God didn’t use mythical, hairy-footed Hobbits to do His will—He used ulcerated lepers instead.

     Lepers in the Old and New Testaments were shunned by society, yet they were also dependent on it for food and assistance. In the Book of 2 Kings, lepers and the other inhabitants of the city of Samaria were under siege by the mighty Syrian army. As a result, starvation plagued the town. Four lepers, who begged for food daily at the city gate, were starving, as well. Knowing they would die in the city anyway, they decided to take their chances and surrender to the Syrians. When they entered the Syrian’s camp under the cloak of darkness, though, they were shocked to find it was deserted. Father God had miraculously put the Syrian army to flight, causing it to flee into the night.

     Due to the army’s quick retreat, it left everything of value: plundered silver and gold, tents, swords, and most importantly, food. The lepers, in their joy, gorged their starving selves with food and wine. They were going to steal things of value and flee into the night, but then said, “We are not doing right. This day is a day of good news, and we remain silent. If we wait until morning light, some punishment will come upon us. Now therefore, come, let us go and tell the king’s household.”

     The lepers’ decision to do this was a turning point in their lives. It showcased the power of individuals to uplift others and bring hope in times of despair. Their decision highlights the importance of not only sharing good news but also acting upon it, as it can profoundly impact those we love and the community in which we live.

     Lest we forget Father God’s words,  “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”  Bringing Godly hope to those we know is a powerful way to spread His love and kindness. It can help brighten someone’s dark days, giving them the strength to carry on. Sharing hope inspires others to be sources of comfort and support for those they care about, perhaps even for strangers.  

   Tolkien used Hobbits to fight evil. Father God used lepers to save a city. And He can still use YOU to spread His good news to a dying world. So, take up thy cross, follow Him, and do so.

Ponder this and go forth.