Life has a way of taking unexpected turns. Sometimes the change is exciting and full of possibility. Other times, it comes with uncertainty, grief, disappointment, or fear. We may find ourselves asking, “What happens now?” or “How will I find my way through this?”
This Sunday, as we continue our worship series Hope for Hard Times, based on Magrey de Vega’s book of the same name, we will turn to the story of Elijah and Elisha in 2 Kings 2:1-12. We will explore what happens when one chapter of life ends, and another begins: “When life takes a turn.”
Elijah knows that his earthly journey is coming to an end. Elisha knows that something is about to change. Neither knows exactly what the future will hold. Even so, Elisha refuses to abandon his mentor. Three times Elijah tells him to stay behind, and three times Elisha responds with determination: “As the Lord lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you.”
Eventually, the moment comes. Elijah is taken up, and Elisha is left standing at the Jordan River, holding Elijah’s mantle. Elisha’s world has changed. The person who had guided and mentored him is gone. The future is uncertain. Yet Elisha is not alone. God is still present, and the calling God has given Elisha continues.
Perhaps you have experienced a moment like that. A job ends. A relationship changes. A loved one dies. Children grow up and leave home. Retirement arrives. A new opportunity opens. A familiar season of life gives way to something entirely new.
The good news is that God is faithful even when life changes. We may not know what comes next, but we can trust that God will meet us there. God gives us people to walk beside us, wisdom for the journey, and courage to take the next step.
When life takes a turn, we do not have to face the unknown alone. Join us this Sunday as we worship together, listen for God’s voice, and discover hope for hard times.
Pastor Kevin