Most people will not be able to do the flashy things that Elijah did nor will they be treated to the sight of fiery chariots. In the New Testament, John the Baptist was portrayed as a latter-day Elijah, and Jesus was taken up into heaven in a dramatic way. In one sense we stand with Elijah's disciple Elisha: we can receive the spirit, and we can do God's work. The Lord may not be visibly or physically present but he does not leave us orphans. We need but pray and ask for the gift of his spirit.

There are many reasons for doing good things but not all of them are good. We can often do the right things for the wrong reasons. For example, we can fast, pray, and give alms so that we can be noticed and praised by others. Jesus insists that those who do this already have their reward: the praise of others and an inflated ego. When we do these things in a quiet and hidden way so that others will not see or praise us then we are truly doing them for God. There is a quiet inner joy and satisfaction in doing things for others without them knowing it. Each day there are numerous occasions to practice anonymous kindness. Jesus said not to let your left hand know what your right is doing. In other words, make these acts of kindness so much a habit that you aren't even aware that you are doing them! God's Kingdom is built of countless acts of kindness and justice.