Hi dear
This season has resulted in much global upheaval, and many of us are trying to discern what God is saying. Could God be inviting us to a life of discipleship? Here’s today’s Holy Nougat
“So Elisha returned to his oxen and slaughtered them. He used the wood from the plow to build a fire to roast their flesh. He passed around the meat to the townspeople, and they all ate. Then he went with Elijah as his assistant.” 1 Kings 19:21 NLT
No turning back! Elisha was leaving nothing to chance. He was resolute. His sacrifice is both to God and was also a symbol of the end of his former life. With the burnt plow, the tools of his trade were gone. Unless he had some secret money stashed away!
But Elisha also fed the entire community with the oxen, which for me represents the sheave (harvest) offering (see Leviticus 23). The sheaf offering was an act of thanksgiving for all God gifted in a planting season. It was shared with the gathered community after the wheat harvest. Although it is not a literal harvest, we see Elisha concludes that chapter of his career very publicly, before moving on to his new life of humility in service.
It is not clearly stated, but one surmises that a) Elisha (or his family) are wealthy; and b) the anointing and call to service by Elijah is not unexpected. There is no suggestion that he waffled or wavered in his departure. He just made his offerings, bid his parents goodbye and became Elijah’s disciple.
Sometimes we are prepared in advance for what God calls us to do. Whether we are prepared (told in advance) or not, it is on us to be ready to be disciples. Are we willing/able to leave it all behind at the drop of a hat? Even when it makes ZERO sense to everyone else?
Can we step outside our comfort zones to feed the hungry, take up our cross and follow God?
Are we hearing God’s call today?
Can we follow right now?
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
