Leaving the plough

Reflection

Elisha was busy with the hard work of his daily life, "plowing with twelve yoke of oxen," when his future changed in an instant. As the prophet Elijah passed by and "cast his mantle upon him," it was a clear sign of a new calling. Elisha did not hesitate; he "left the oxen, and ran after Elijah." This moment shows us that God often meets you right where you are, in the middle of your ordinary chores and responsibilities, to invite you into a deeper purpose.

Before departing, Elisha demonstrated both love for his family and a total commitment to his new path. He asked to "kiss my father and my mother," but then he did something radical. He "took a yoke of oxen, and slew them," using his farming tools to cook a final meal for the people. By destroying the "instruments of the oxen," he made sure there was no turning back to his old life. He chose to leave behind his security to follow and "ministered unto" Elijah. Following God’s call may require you to let go of the familiar, but it leads to a life of service that nourishes others.