Advent, day 17. The Caller and the Called.

Today consider the man God chose to be Elijah's successor, Elisha. A young, wealthy, up-and-coming man, he had a vested interest in maintaining his status quo. But he shows no qualms or second thoughts about abandoning the security and comfort of his family to step out into risk and uncertainty. Particularly appealing is that Elijah does not feel the need to "sell" the call. There is no manipulation, no sound argument, no debate: he throws the mantle and carries on.

Our culture easily mires into debate and rationalising. When God calls us, are we listening or dialoguing?

Advent, day 17. The Caller and the Called.

1 Ki 19:21 So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the ploughing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and become his attendant.

(Told from Elisha’s perspective. Elisha means “My God is salvation.”)

The mantle of a prophet

isn’t like it sounds—

not like a royal robe or costly cloak.

It’s uncomfortable and heavy

and sometimes just plain smelly.

It rubs and scratches and can reek of smoke.

I was ploughing in our fields

when Elijah travelled through,

And he threw his mantle right across my back.

Of course, it was an honour—

my life direction changed—

when a prophet is your master, stay on track.

So to show I was intent

and obedient to his call,

I asked to bid my former life farewell.

The oxen pair I slew,

the plough was fire fuel—

we celebrated till the darkness fell.

Our family is wealthy

—father’s respected—

We’re known in this part of the nation.

A home-boy to serve

the prophet of the LORD:

Reminding that “God’s our salvation.”

Might seem like a comedown,

from our situation—

But I’ve known that I wasn’t my own.

And I eagerly anticipate

this rustic, simple life,

Despite danger and no place to call home.

Until God tells me anything is different,

Homeless I wander, a transient.