ToddGaddisBook_October2023_8.5x5.5.indd

Next, be ready to answer the bell, even if you’re not well. As this text unfolds, the Word says, “Elisha became sick with the illness of which he was to die” (2 Kings 13:14). At that point, Joash, current king of Israel, came to him and said, “My father, my father, the chariots of Israel and its horsemen!” (2 Kings 13:14). Note that these are the exact same words that Elisha spoke to Elisha as he was taken up to heaven in the chariot. Joash, pagan though he was, recognized Elisha as a true man of God.Though just a man, Elisha personified the strength of Israel and protection against its enemies. So, with just a few breaths remaining, Elisha said to Joash, “Take a bow and arrows. Put your hand on the bow. Open the window toward the east, Shoot!” (2 Kings 13:15-17). After the king shot the arrow, Elisha continued, “The Lord’s arrow of victory, even the arrow of victory over Aram; for you will defeat the Arameans at Aphek until you have destroyed them” (2 Kings 13:17). The exercise symbolized the fact that God’s presence was still with Israel, despite the imminent death of the prophet. East was the direction of the enemy. Arrows being shot in that direc tion meant Israel intended to engage in battle, one in which Elisha promised victory in advance. The older we get, the more likely we’ll face health issues. The goal is not to be obsessed by them.The stereotypical senior citizens sit around discussing aches and pains. My wife and I, now in our mid 60s, catch ourselves falling into that trap from time to time.Yet, we’re determined not to obsess about growing old. Elisha serves as a worthy role model for the elderly and sick.Though at the point of death, he allowed God to use him in a significant way. He could have stopped working completely at that

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