The Relic that Revived the Dead
Pre-texts: II Peter 1:21, II Timothy 3:16,17
Background Texts: I Kings 19:19-21, II Kings 3:11, II Kings 6:11,12
Main Text: II Kings 13:20, 21
Relic -an object surviving from an earlier time, especially one of historical or sentimental interest.
Example: a part of a deceased holy person’s body or belongings that are kept as objects of reverence.
Legacy -the long lasting impact of particular actions that took place in the past
The inspiration of a person’s life does not end with their death. The way one lives their life creates a legacy that can make or break the next generation.
We first read of Elisha in I Kings chapter 19. The prophet Elijah has had a show-down with the prophets of Baal, on Mount Carmel. Then we read of how he ran from the wicked queen Jezebel. He experiences supernatural visitation from an angel while he was under the juniper tree. Leaves fasting for 40 days and winds up in a cave. He hears from God there, with instructions regarding the anointing of kings and of choosing Elisha to be his successor.
While not sure of Elisha’s age at that time, scholars say that he served Elijah for about 6 years; and that he lived to be about 90 years old. When they say “served” they mean that he was like a valet for his mentor, Elijah. In II Kings 3:11 we read a description of Elisha as “one who poured water for Elijah”. This is a reference to him being Elijah’s attendant; and as such, would have drawn water for hand washing and any other purpose for which Elijah needed. In II Kings 6:11, 12 we read a description of Elisha that states “he even knows what the king has said in his bed chamber”. In other words, Elisha was well informed about the affairs of the kingdom. Presumably, Elisha’s relationship with God was how he came to know about the business of the king.
II Kings chapter 13 gives a snapshot of the tension between the Northern Kingdom of Israel (Judah) and Syria. Being at war with each other was a common occurrence as were the annual springtime raids from the bands of Moabites. Keeping this in mind, it is reasonable to assume that Judah had learned some battle strategy and how to make decisions while on the move.
II Kings 3:20, 21 gives us a minimal account of the last recorded miracle performed by Elisha. Some men of Judah were going about to bury one of their citizens when they noticed the Moabite raiders headed their way. In a quick change of plans, they placed the dead man into the tomb that contained Elisha’s remains. Upon contact with the bones of Elisha, the dead man came to life and stood up.
Without speculation as to what happened to him or the purpose (intended by God) for this miracle; let’s just say the relic (Elisha’s bones) revived a dead man. In other words, what had been left behind became the jump start of a new life.
At this point I want to simply draw a parallel between the miracle and what is still happening today when one encounters the legacy of a departed saint. You’ve heard the quote, “you may be the only Bible that some people ever read”. That refers to people being impacted by the Word of God by simply observing your life & character. The same applies to those who only encounter the memories of your life or the mementos (relics) that you leave behind. For example: one reading your journals, diaries, or Bibles would get a picture of who you were and how you made God a part of your everyday life. This in turn could become a great encouragement for them to make things right with God or to continue walking with Him.
Take a moment to think about a loved one that has died. If you were close to them at all, you can remember specific occasions with them, words of advice they gave to you, and the overall example that they portrayed to the world. These recollections (relics) can revive you in various ways. They may give you courage to face whatever crisis you are experiencing. They may give you a pattern to follow when making similar decisions. They may inspire you to do more with your life. The relics have the power to refresh and revive.
What will you leave behind when you die? What relics will be found among the memories of your life? Will others be refreshed and revived? Or will they even remember the things that mattered the most to you? Let us strive to live pleasing to God now and rest knowing that the testimony of our lives will encourage and inspire others.