First Lesson: 2 Kings 2:1-12a

Theme: Dedicated devotion and spiritual succession

Exegetical Note
This story entails a twofold journey: of the prophet Elijah toward his reward (ascension); and of his successor Elisha toward an inheritance of his master’s authority and power. The connecting thread is Elisha’s persistence in his vow to accompany Elijah to the end (despite discouragement from both his older colleague and other prophets encountered along the way) and his receiving a "double measure" of Elijah’s spirit as a result.

Call to Worship
Leader: May the God who calls great men and women to service be with us this hour!
People: MAY THE GOD WHO GRANTS AUTHORITY AND POWER TO MERE MORTALS BLESS US THIS DAY!
Leader: May the God who rewarded Elijah with ascension and his successor Elisha …