2 Kings 2:1-12

Thoughts:       Elijah: The Lord has directed me to leave Gilgal and go to Bethel. You stay here.
Elisha: Oh no, I won’t leave you.
(They go to Bethel.)
 
Prophets’ sons: Elisha, don’t you know that God is going to take Elisha away from you today?
Elisha: Yes, I know. Be quiet.
Elijah: The Lord has directed me to go to Jericho. But you stay here.
Elisha: I will not leave you.
(They go to Jericho.)
 
Prophets: Don’t you know, Elisha, that God is going to take Elijah away from you today?
Elisha: Yes, I know. Be quiet.
Elijah: Now Elisha, you stay here. The Lord is sending me to Jordan.
Elisha: I’m coming with you.
(They go to the Jordan River, where Elijah hits the water with his rolled-up robe, and the river parts. Elijah and Elisha cross over on dry land.)
 
Elijah: What can I do for you before I am taken from you?
Elisha: Give me a double portion of your spirit.
Elijah: If you see me when I am taken from you, you will receive the double portion.
 
Not brilliant dialogue? True. Repetitive? Yes. Building toward a climactic end? Ponderously.
 
But one great servant of God was taken up to heaven, and His chosen successor began his work.
 
Discussion:      Why was it important for Elisha to see Elijah taken up into heaven?
 
Activity:          Watch for small miracles- a child’s shy smile, a friend’s understanding heart, a familiar Bible verse that you hear with new understanding.