Carry On

2 Kings 2:8-15

During my time on earth, I’ve had the immense joy of “doing life” with some amazing women.  The world can be a crazy place, so to have people you trust who you can turn to when you’re not sure what to do, is beyond comforting.  Women who’ve been there, done that and who’ve lived a life of honest faith can have a resounding impact on your life.  I truly believe there is nothing better than having a mentor - or two or three.

In today’s story, Elijah served as a mentor to Elisha.  They cared for each other and before they were separated, Elisha said he wanted to be like Elijah and do the things he did.  Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, right?

Now I will admit, none of my mentors have been able to divide water with their coats, but they’ve done some pretty amazing things by sharing their faith with others.  I hope I’m able to do the same.

Will I one day witness them being taken to heaven in a chariot of fire, most likely not, though that would be cool.  I do hope that when their work here on earth is done, part of their spirit will live on in me.  Just as Elisha carried on Elijah’s mission of prophecy, so too do I want to be a good steward of their legacy.

Father, you are the ultimate mentor.  Thank you for placing people in our lives to show us the way.  May we each seek out others we can share your kingdom mission with.  Amen 

Genesis 49:10; Luke 3:23,33

I found myself whining again as I was writing in my journal this morning.  Yesterday my new garage door opener decided not to work properly.  It would get to within 3 feet of closing and pop open.  There was nothing there to impede its operation, it just would not close.  I don't like it when things don't work like they are suppose to.  I get an unsettled feeling, anxiety if you will, over something so small.

Right on the heels of this, my devotion time today found me in 2 Kings 6:16-17.  This is the story of an enemy of Israel who tried to capture Elisha by sending an army, a strong force of chariots and horses to surround the city Elisha where was staying.  Elisha's servant discovered their presence in the morning and ran to his master in a panic.  What was Elisha's response?  "Don't be afraid."

How many times do we hear Jesus saying this very thing to us?  Don't be afraid is a command, not a comforting pat on the back.  Why then do I jump into fear the moment things don't go my way?  Do I not trust, do I want things the way I want them and that is that?  I am sensing God is telling me more.  He is using simple things like broken garage door openers to remind me I am not in charge here.

Jesus is coming, Royal Authority is on the way and things as mundane as garage door openers are under His control, not mine.  My everyday life is His to control.  "I serve at the pleasure of the King."

The texts for today can be found at Genesis 49:10; Luke 3:23,33