Sermon: Legacy, Love, and the Spirit-Led Life
by Mother Nozy — June 29, 2025
As we begin today’s message, I want to take a moment to set the stage by reminding us who Elijah and Elisha were. These two figures were not only prophets appointed by God but also powerful instruments of His will during a crucial time in Israel’s history. Their ministries were marked by extraordinary miracles, and their significance is echoed even in the New Testament. Today, we begin our reflection in the Old Testament, transition to our Epistle reading in Galatians, and conclude with a call to intentional living and legacy.
The Relationship Between Elijah and Elisha
The relationship between Elijah and Elisha was one of teacher and student. Elijah, the seasoned prophet, mentored Elisha, who was eager to learn. One of the most well-known moments in their story comes when Elisha requests a double portion of Elijah’s anointing—a bold and faithful request that reflects his deep desire to carry on the prophetic mission with even greater power. Elijah’s ministry was bold and confrontational, calling a rebellious nation back from the brink of apostasy. In contrast, Elisha’s ministry was marked by compassionate miracles for ordinary people—a reminder of God’s unwavering love and faithfulness.
a) Modeling the Elijah–Elisha Dynamic Today
A modern example of the Elijah–Elisha relationship is my own connection with Father Dave—he has been my mentor, and I, his student. Like Elisha, I had to cultivate a teachable heart and spirit. I believe all of us, in one way or another, have been both mentor and mentee.
Now, I invite you to consider: In your own circles of influence—your families, your communities, your workplaces—how are you modeling the role of Elijah to the Elishas coming up behind you? This is about more than mentorship. It’s about legacy. About living out and teaching life-giving principles like faith, love, and perseverance. The next generation must be willing to learn, but we—the current generation—must be willing to teach, even when it’s difficult.
b) Navigating Fear and Uncharted Territory
In today’s reading, we hear how people whispered to Elisha that Elijah was about to be taken away. Elisha, understandably, was fearful. His life was about to change drastically. That support system—his mentor—was about to be removed. We don’t often talk about death, separation, or change, but the truth is: life will separate us from people we love, from those who teach and guide us. And this brings up an important question:
What kind of legacy are we preparing to leave behind?
Elisha was afraid of life without Elijah—and that’s okay. Fear in the face of uncharted territory is normal. I want us to normalize that fear without being enslaved by it. Whether you’re leading in the church, exploring a new season in life, or navigating post-COVID challenges, fear is real—but it doesn’t have to be paralyzing. In fact, Galatians warns us not to return to slavery—especially the kind that fear creates. Instead, we are called to live by the Spirit. As 2 Timothy 1:7 says:
“The Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.”
Let this Spirit guide your steps as you mentor, love, and build your legacy.
You Are Already Leaving a Legacy
Some of you may be thinking:
“I’m not mentoring anyone.”
“I’m far from my family,” or “I don’t want to force religion on my children lest they distance themselves.”
All of that may be true. But here’s the good news: Galatians gives us a starting point.
“The whole law is summed up in a single commandment: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’”
To love your neighbor as yourself means treating others with the same care, dignity, and kindness you desire. It’s not just a feeling—it’s an action. A choice. It’s about compassion, support, and building positive relationships. This is legacy.
And who is your neighbor? The Bible teaches us that everyone is our neighbor. Every person we encounter is made in the image of God and worthy of love.
Living by the Fruit of the Spirit
The Bible says we will be known by our fruits. In a perfect world, I wouldn’t need to introduce myself by title or wear clerical clothing to be identified. Instead, my actions—my love, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness—should reveal that I am a child of God.
Unfortunately, we are often caught up in strife, anger, dissension, and impunity, making it hard for others to see or hear God through us. But here’s the truth: You don’t even need to open your Bible to preach if you live out the fruits of the Spirit. That can be your legacy—how loving, generous, kind, and gentle you are.
May this week, and the weeks to come, be a time to cultivate, grow, and add mulch to your spiritual fruit.
Conclusion: An Intentional Challenge
Let us go forward today challenged to:
Model Elijah’s wisdom and Elisha’s teachable heart.
Face fear with courage and trust in the Spirit.
Leave a legacy grounded in love, not just for our families, but for everyone we meet.
Let our fruits speak before our words do.
