Today’s first reading is one that has stuck with me since the first time I ever heard it. Elijah is about to hand the office of prophet over to Elisha. Elijah says to Elisha, “Ask for whatever I may do for you.” So what does Elisha ask for? I’ll tell you in a sec. (But I would prefer you read the reading!) In the Gospel, Jesus tells the disciples about almsgiving, prayer and fasting. He talks about these things as though they are a given, not optional. WHEN you give alms, WHEN you pray, WHEN you fast. These are all must-do things for Christians.
Back to the Elijah-Elisha saga. When Elisha is told he can ask for anything, he replies, “May I receive a double portion of your spirit.” Talk about boldness! Elisha doesn’t just ask for a blessing (single portion.) He asks for twice the blessing! Elijah told him to ask for anything, so he did. What a great lesson for us.
We so often put limits on God. We forget that God can do anything. ANYTHING!! If we don’t ask BIG, we won’t receive BIG. Now, don’t get me wrong; this isn’t the “prosperity gospel.” I’m not saying that if you send me $100, God will double your money back tomorrow. What I am saying is, why are we so reticent to believe that God wants big things for us? Ask for a double portion of the blessing today. If it is not in God’s will, so be it. But it never hurts to ask!
Father, give us a double portion of your spirit today. Bless us with your choicest blessings, according to Your will. Amen.
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