June 9, 2006, Tuesday of the 10th week in ordinary time.

A reading from the first book of kings.

The brook near where Elijah was hiding ran dry because no rain had fallen in the land.

So the Lord said to Elijah, move on to Zarifath of Sidon, and stay there.

I have designated a widow there to provide for you.

He left and went to Zarifeth.

As he arrived at the entrance of the city,

a widow was gathering sticks there.

He called out to her, Please bring me a small cup full of water to drink.

She left to get it, and he called out after her. Please bring along a bit of bread. She answered,

As the Lord your God lives, I have nothing baked.

There is only a handful of flour in my jar

and a little oil in my jug.

Just now I was collecting a couple of sticks

to go in and prepare something for myself and my son.

When we have eaten it, we shall die.

Elijah said to her,

Do not be afraid.

Go and do as you propose,

but first, make me a little cake

and bring it to me.

Then you can prepare something

...