Daily Prayer: a resource of Forward Movement

The Forward Day by Day Meditation for February 14, 2021

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SUNDAY, February 14 Last Sunday after Epiphany

2 Kings 2:9 When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me what I may do for you, before I am taken from you.” Elisha said, “Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit.”

To ask for a double helping of one’s inheritance requires chutzpah. In this case, the inheritance Elisha requests is not for material goods. He wants a double share of the spirit from Elijah, his mentor and teacher. Elijah has just parted the waters of the Jordan for them to walk through. Is Elisha requesting the power to perform flashy miracles? Elijah honors the request of his protégé with the condition that Elisha watches as Elijah ascends to heaven in a whirlwind.

If my child requested a gift of my spirit, I would be pleased and honored. It would mean my child wanted to be like me in some way. In fact, I was pleased and honored when my daughter asked to be confirmed in our church. Elisha asks for something profound—a double share of spirit. Perhaps with that comes a confidence to lean on God when a miracle is needed. I’d like a double share of that spirit as well.

MOVING FORWARD: Would you like to request a “double share of spirit” from someone? Talk with that person today about how their life of faith has inspired and changed you.

PRAY for the Anglican Church of Canada

Ps 50:1-6 | 2 Kings 2:1-12 | 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 | Mark 9:2-9