When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, ‘Tell me what I may do for you, before I am taken from you.’ Elisha said, ‘Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit.’” vs. 9
2 Kings 2:9-12
Elisha’s request may seem strange to us, but he was making a reference to the inheritance laws of Israel, where the first-born son, at the death of his father, was awarded a double share of the inheritance. Elisha is asking Elijah to recognize him as his first-born successor, which as the choice of the Lord, he ultimately became.
Most all of us are familiar with the laws of inheritance in our country, and many have taken steps to avoid probate by writing wills and establishing trusts. We want to be able to direct our remaining wealth and property to worthy heirs or benevolences. We particularly want to make sure our children and grandchildren will be taken care of. But Elisha suggests that there are more important things to be passed on from one generation to the next. Have we ever considered whether our descendants will inherit the Spirit that has filled us with faith and driven our desire to love and serve? Will they trust in the Christ within and be a part of the Body of Christ in the world? Will they worship the living Lord? What would happen if we intentionally bequeath to them a double share of our Spirit in our last testament? It would be the most valuable gift we could give them!
Thought for the Day: How would my children receive a double share of my Spirit?
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