1. Elisha, plowing for his father (19-20)

After returning from Mount Sinai, Elijah went first to find the man who was to be his successor, Elisha. Elisha was evidently from a wealthy family. When Elijah found him, he was plowing with 12 yoke of oxen, personally driving the 12th pair. Perhaps he was supervising the work of several servants. When Elijah threw his cloak around him, Elisha knew that God was calling him. The first thing that came to his mind was his parents.

2. Elisha's clear decision (21)

Elisha left his oxen and ran after Elijah. But one thing held him back. He asked if he might kiss his parents good-bye. Elijah did not compromise. He said, 'Go on back. Just forget about it.' So Elisha went back, but not to kiss his parents good-bye. He burned the plow and cooked the oxen and gave the meat to the people. He was no longer a family man. He was God's servant. He followed Elijah.

Application: Lord, thank you for your calling, and for the reminder that I belong to you.
One Word: God's calling is costly