We find such a lament in the tale of the Shunammite woman. She was a generous soul who offered the prophet Elisha hospitality in her home. Years later, tragedy struck: her child, a gift she had received seemingly against all odds, died suddenly. Overwhelmed with grief, she turned to Elisha, crying out, "O that the vessel had remained empty, rather than it should be filled first, and then be left void!" (as recounted in Legends of the Jews).

Can you imagine her anguish?

Elisha, despite his prophetic gifts, was taken aback. He admitted that while he often knew what was to come, God had kept him unaware of this particular misfortune. But Elisha didn't despair. With faith in God, he sent his disciple Gehazi to revive the boy. He gave Gehazi his staff, a symbol of his power and connection to the divine.

But here’s where the story takes a turn. Gehazi, alas, was no Elisha. According to the narratives, his behavior towards the Shunammite was unbecoming, and more importantly, he lacked true faith. He didn't believe he could actually bring the boy back to life!

Instead of following Elisha's instructions to remain silent, Gehazi mocked the task. He went around asking people, "Do you really think this staff can bring the dead back to life?" (again, Legends of the Jews recounts this). His lack of faith and disrespectful attitude sabotaged his mission. He forfeited the power to perform the miracle.

So, Elisha himself had to step in. He prayed to God, saying, "O Lord of the world! As Thou didst wonders through my master Elijah, and didst permit him to bring the dead to life, so, I pray Thee, do Thou perform a wonder through me, and let me restore life to this lad." And God, hearing his heartfelt plea, granted his request. The child was revived!

What does this story tell us? Well, aside from the obvious miraculous element, it highlights the importance of gratitude. As Legends of the Jews points out, Elisha didn't try to revive his own relatives, but instead focused his efforts on the woman who had shown him kindness. This act underscores the Jewish value of hakarat hatov (הכרת הטוב), recognizing and appreciating the good that others do for us.

It’s a reminder that even in the face of profound loss, acts of kindness and gratitude can be powerful forces, capable of inspiring miracles. And maybe, just maybe, that’s a little miracle in itself.