When the company of prophets who were at Jericho saw him at a distance, they declared, “The spirit of Elijah rests on Elisha.”
2 Kings 2:15a
Our Advent experience is a complicated mix of waiting, generosity, frenzy and, if we are honest, selfishness. As Elisha waited his turn in the spotlight, knowing Elijah was about to depart this world, his own desires got the better of him too. “Give me a double share of your spirit,” he asked of his mentor. We all want to do good in the world, but we can get distracted by our own need for recognition.
Sometimes we resist rolling up our sleeves to wash dishes after a community meal, instead preferring the role of gracious host. Rather than quietly contributing to a relief fund, we want to “adopt a family” for Christmas, showing up at the recipients’ door to receive their gratitude. True generosity of spirit looks a little different. At Hope’s Table, a Eucharistic Table ministry in Reading, PA, leftovers are always boxed up and sent home.
One evening John and Kathy were washing tables after dinner when Stanley arrived late. There was no more food for him to take home for himself and his two sons, so John slipped out to his car, where he and Kathy were living, and retrieved his boxed leftover shepherd’s pie and quietly gave it to Stanley. Truly, the Spirit rested on John that evening.
Generous God, grant us a share of your spirit and use us to share your abundant gifts with the world, especially during this season of giving. Amen.
The Rev. Mary Wolfe is Pastor at Hope Lutheran Church, Reading, PA.
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