Spiritual Mentor

2 Kings 2:1,6-14; Ps 31 Let your hearts take comfort, all who hope in the lord; Matthew 6:1-6,16-18

Today we get to encounter the end of Elijah's ministry; a flaming chariot swoops down and carries him away.  It is a pretty dramatic scene in the unfolding of the life and mission of Elijah.

It is so visually captivating. But what is also captivating is Elisha standing on the banks of the Jordan watching his friend and mentor vanish in his sight.  A serious sadness grips Elisha so much so that he rips his garments.

Between the flaming chariot ascending and fallen face of Elisha standing on the banks of the jordan with his garments torn by his own hand out of grief the passage today truly does captivate.

Which brings to mind a question:  who are your spiritual guides in life?  Who are your spiritual mentors?  Or who are your spiritual personal trainers?

Who has been that person that has led you deeper into understanding your relationship with God and His call for you in life?

Take a moment to reflect.

Secondly who have you mentored spiritually like Elijah to Elisha?  How does your life become that of a spiritual guide, not so much overtly but genuinely in all that you say and do?

This is what Jesus may be hinting at when he tells us to "not perform righteous deed in order that people may see them."  We have a duty to give good example and yet avoid attention.  How often is public action of faith short circuited by the desire to be noticed or recognized.

Spiritual Maturity demands attention to motivation as well as external action.  In this balance we arrive at being a spiritual guide for others in a stealth like manner.


"And your Father who sees what is hidden will repay you."