As I stare through the glass of the wood burning stove, Father, I think of our relationship.

For this to be the main heat source for our home, it has to be maintained. I cannot build one fire and expect it to last for more than several hours. I have to feed it, sometimes it’s a piece of wood or two. In the early morning hours after it has burnt down overnight, it might take several pieces. Oft times there are enough embers to get things going again. This morning it had burnt down enough that it needed a little help – I had to use part of a starter brick to get it going.

I also, on a regular basis, have to remove the ashes from the box under the burning chamber. I can’t let it go too long or it starts to overflow and gets to be a real mess to clean up.

Father, our relationship requires constant maintenance on my part. You are the fire – the energy source that enables me to overcome the impact of coldness that sin has in my life. It warms me and it provides and means of bringing warmth to others – some in desperate need of You. I can radiate that which You have placed within me.

Our relationship began decades ago, but I cannot depend upon that event to supply my needs today. It was a beginning but that was all. I have to give attention to our relationship – I have to feed it. I have to read Your word. I have to interact with You, not just once a day but throughout the day. A conversation here, a thank you there, and lengthy portion of time as we sit together and You speak to and through me. All of it adds up to a healthy, warm and inviting relationship that benefits all with the glow of its warmth.

Also, as we interact, the burning in my heart exposes and destroys sin that wants to stay but You, if I will allow You to do so, eradicate it. You reduce it to ashes. You purify me so that I might serve Your kingdom more efficiently – leaving nothing to hinder my work.

Lord Jesus, may You burn freely in the very depths of my soul! May Your presence and impact radiate through this earthen vessel. Draw others to Yourself through me. May I be all I can be in You. Amen.

Jan 29th, 2019, Tues, 12:26 pm