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“Some time later the son of the woman who owned the house became ill. He grew worse and worse, and finally stopped breathing” (1 Kings 17:17). Gladness turned to sadness when this poor widow and child, who had been supernaturally fed for an extended period of time, suf fered an unwelcome and unexpected death. There’s nothing quite as grievous in life as the death of a child.The intense grief involved has a leveling effect on all demo graphic, economic and ethnic barriers. As the saying goes, “a parent should never have to bury a child.” Over three decades, I’ve pastored several families and served along ministers who have experienced the death of a child. I’m sure a day doesn’t pass without thoughts of these dear ones. And though they never get over it, most have experienced the peace of the Lord, knowing they will see them again one day.As for their remaining days on earth, they are able to minister to and provide comfort for others going through the same experience. Considering such occurrences in the Bible, David comes to mind. He had it all when it came to worldly possessions and position.Yet, he lost the child born from his adulterous relations with Bathsheba just a few days after birth. Some time later, his rebellious son Absalom was killed. “O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom!Would I had died instead of you, O Absalom, my son, my son!” cried David when he heard the news (2 Samuel 18:33). No doubt, most parents, including the widow of Zarephath, would voice the same words. In her case, a tragic death was followed by intense prayer. Why would I address prayer again when we discussed it in the opening chapter? Because it was in Elijah’s DNA. Prayer wasn’t something He did, but rather who he was. As we examine this particular incident, note that Elijah’s supplication began with isolation. Learning of the boy’s death, the

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