Year 4, Day 365: 2 Kings 2

Theological Commentary: Click Here

Discipleship Focus: Calling

• Calling asks whether or not God has called the person to the particular work at this point in their life.

There can be little doubt that Elisha is called to not only be a prophet, but to be Elijah’s immediate successor.  Immediately after Elijah leaves, Elisha picks up Elijah’s cloak and performs the same miraculous parting of the Jordan that Elijah had just done.  Furthermore, Elisha is mocked by the pagan people in Bethel, indicating that they likewise sense Elisha’s spiritual calling.  Yes, Elisha is called to be a prophet.

But let’s look at what Elisha does before his calling.  First of all, Elisha follows Elijah.  Even when Elijah gives him space enough to go away, Elisha stays close.  Elisha knows where he can learn best, and he doesn’t give it up even where the option to leave is extended.  Elisha experiences calling because he is faithful.

Second, Elisha asks Elijah for a “double portion.”  This is not greed; it is a sign that Elisha considers himself to be Elijah’s first-born spiritual child.  Elisha has voluntarily placed himself in a place of submission underneath Elijah.  Elisha experiences calling because he is humble.

Third, we return to the first miracle of Elisha and the last miracle of Elijah.  Elisha is called because he is willing to imitate.  Elisha is willing to learn from others before going out and innovating his own way.

Elisha is certainly called.  But Elisha was called because his character was also in a good place.  He was willing to lead by following first and submitting to God.

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