Proper 14: First Reading, 1 Kings 19:1-8                                            

1 Kings 19:1-8 

It’s a popular notion among many Christians that on the heels of any spiritual success or achievement, the devil is lurking nearby and ready to pounce. I’m not sure that is always the case. And I am certain that the Christian truly has nothing to fear no matter the assault or challenge. Tough times and dark days are meshed with the joy of the Lord for every believer. But our Victor is present and faithful.

Having pointed that out, our first reading this week IS an example of one of God’s faithful servants, one of the “greats”, being blasted on the far side of perhaps his greatest triumph: the slaughter of the prophets of Baal. Yes, Elijah had withstood the mockery and blasphemy of the pagans and called on the name of the true God. God, because of His greatness and concern for His own name had answered in a way that I am certain surprised even the great prophet. But now, the wicked Queen Jezebel hears of it from her husband, King Ahab (I always take him for a squeaky little punk), and her threats of doom come quickly.

So interesting. They strike their intended target and send him, tail between his legs, running for cover. Pretty sad, actually. But would we fare any better? You see, the great temptation for fallen men and women, is that even when God leads us to great triumph, we tend to see it as our victory and not the Lord’s. And that never ends well. Now I’m not entirely sure that Elijah entertained that thought. But I wouldn’t bet against it, knowing my own heart as I do.

Elijah’s conclusion? It’s time to die. God’s? Not so fast. God’s provision came more quickly to the ailing prophet than the rantings of Jezebel. 40 days and 40 nights on the mount where God’s word came to Moses. Eating the bread of God. God’s not waiting in the wings. He’s in the director’s chair. And Elijah’s role hasn’t yet been fully played.