Reading 63 • November 15
Today's Scripture
1 Kings 22:15–25
When he had come to the king, the king said to him, “Micaiah, shall we go to Ramoth-gilead to battle, or shall we refrain?” He answered him, “Go up and triumph; the Lord will give it into the hand of the king.” But the king said to him, “How many times must I make you swear to tell me nothing but the truth in the name of the Lord?” Then Micaiah said, “I saw all Israel scattered on the mountains, like sheep that have no shepherd; and the Lord said, ‘These have no master; let each one go home in peace.’” The king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, “Did I not tell you that he would not prophesy anything favorable about me, but only disaster?” Then Micaiah said, “Therefore hear the word of the Lord: I saw the Lord sitting on his throne, with all the host of heaven standing beside him to the right and to the left of him. And the Lord said, ‘Who will entice Ahab, so that he may go up and fall at Ramoth-gilead?’ Then one said one thing, and another said another, until a spirit came forward and stood before the Lord, saying, ‘I will entice him.’ ‘How?’ the Lord asked him. He replied, ‘I will go out and be a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets.’ Then the Lord said, ‘You are to entice him, and you shall succeed; go out and do it.’ So you see, the Lord has put a lying spirit in the mouth of all these your prophets; the Lord has decreed disaster for you.” Then Zedekiah son of Chenaanah came up to Micaiah, slapped him on the cheek, and said, “Which way did the spirit of the Lord pass from me to speak to you?” Micaiah replied, “You will find out on that day when you go in to hide in an inner chamber.” (NRSV)
Reflection
There is in our society a kind of obsession with those in the public whom we admire, be they influencers, celebrities, or leaders. In the language of social media, we follow them, which is language that suggests some form of discipleship. It’s not only that we are entertained or inspired by the talent these public figures offer. It’s also our desire to share in their admirable qualities. If only we could have an ounce of their skill, we think. Or as Elisha puts it, a double share of their spirit.
But Elisha is not simply an obsequious fanboy. I see him rather as a prophet with an enormous capacity for empathy and compassion, with a loving devotion to a fellow prophet. Every time Elijah says, “Stay here,” Elisha disregards and walks with him further. Every time another prophet reminds him that Elijah will be taken away soon, Elisha replies “Come what may, I remain with him.” Elijah is coming to his end, and so one can understand if he wishes not to put the burden of witnessing such a lamentable and vulnerable moment on his youthful successor. And yet, in an echo of that other biblical duo, Naomi and Ruth, Elisha essentially says, “Where you go, I will go also.”
Now Elisha isn’t completely selfless. He still desires a share in Elijah’s prophetic power. But in order to do so, he must continue to be present and watchful to the very end.
This relationship has much to teach us about the path toward which God’s love calls us. It is the firm path of accompaniment. Accompaniment is not about what we can fix or solve for others, but who we can be for them in their struggle because of our steadfast presence.
Despite the awesome responsibility of the prophetic mantle, Elijah is able to simply be a child of God because Elisha simply wishes to be with him and acknowledge his humanity. Where might our presence, simple but profound, remind someone that they are beloved, not for what they can do but for who they are?
Prayer
Ever-present God, with you we are not ultimately lost or alone. Now help me to reflect such steadfast love with others today as we walk side by side on our faith journeys. Amen.
Written by Joseph L. Morrow, Associate Pastor
Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church
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