INHERITANCE

What is the most important gift that you hope to leave for those you love most? Is it a favorite item that you’ve treasured from childhood or something that was only received after tremendous sacrifice? Is there a gift that you were given that had been something very special to someone that you never knew; its value may be best measured by the significance of the trust that is implied or explicitly conveyed?

Elisha remained close to the prophet Elijah in hopes of receiving an inheritance that Elijah wasn’t sure he could actually give. Elisha simply wanted a double portion of Elijah’s spirit. The gift that Elisha valued most was almost completely intangible. The actual transfer of the gift did not occur in an instant, it had been gradually shared. The value of the gift increased exponentially as both Elijah and Elijah realized that opportunity to receive the gift was almost over.

It is not clear if Elijah believed that his spirit was the most important gift that he could leave for Elisha. The inheritance you hope to leave for those you love might not be the gift that they value or desire. Elijah dared to ask Elisha what he wanted from him. What would happen if we asked those we love what do they expect from us?

Invite someone to come to the worship service and Sunday class with you. As we continue to explore the journeys of the prophets, we also learn a lot about ourselves. Don’t forget to get your copy of our resource for the six week church-wide study—Abide With Us: A Lenten Journey with the Saints. We’ll look for you Sunday morning at 9:00 and 10:30.

In Christ,
Jon McCoy