DoublePortion_October2023_8.5x5.5_REV.indd

necticut said, “ At the end of the day, the goals are simple–safety and security.” If such thinking guided those responding to the call of God, who would go?Where does faith come in? I prefer what Shakespeare said, “Security is the chief enemy of mortals.” And Douglas McArthur, “There is no security on this earth; there is only opportunity.”The key is saying yes and taking a risk when opportu nity knocks, especially when it relates to the call of God. Family - As Elisha began the process of following Elijah, he said, “Let me kiss my father and mother goodbye, and then I will come with you” (1 Kings 19:20). Similarly, when one of Jesus’ potential follow ers said, “Lord, permit me first to bury my father,” He responded, “Follow Me, and allow the dead to bury their own dead” (Matthew 8:21,22). When I first answered God’s call in the early 80s, my parents, despite being dedicated believers and faithful church attenders, were very concerned, even resistant. I get it.They had poured themselves into raising me, and here I was, giving up a good job and starting over several states away. In the end, I’m happy to say, they became our biggest supporters and loudest cheerleaders. Elijah’s reply to Elisha is worth noting, “Go back . . . what have I done to you?” (1 Kings 19: 20). In other words, “Go back, but don’t be hindered by earthly affections. Keep in mind this is God’s call on your life, not mine. I’m not here to communicate or to convince; pass along but not persuade.Your response is not to me, but to God.” Battling through prosperity, security, family concerns, and whatever else the enemy may throw at you, be ready to: Receive your new assignment with open hands and a willing heart- That said, note first the symbolic way in which the call was con summated. Locating Elisha, “Elijah went up to him and threw his cloak around him” (1 Kings 19:19). Such symbolism, from which we get the phrase “passing of the mantle,” signifies a transfer of power and Elisha’s acceptance of prophetic office.

35