Everyone loves a good campfire. The sight of the flames, smell and crackle of the burning wood, and embracing the warmth all work together in mesmerizing goodness. As enjoyable as campfires are, they take some work to maintain. Sometimes the flames die down, the embers begin to dull, and a chill sets in. That’s when we have to, as St. Paul says, “stir [the fire] into flame” (2 Timothy 1:6).
Our spiritual life can be like a campfire. There are times when we are on fire for the Lord and enjoy his warmth and light. There are other times when our faith is smoldering, a bit smoky and smelly, lacking light and far from warm. When that happens, we need to stir it up!
Start now. Don’t delay. Get stirring.
Try something new. Mix it up. Step out of your rut.
Identity what’s smothering your fire. Examine your conscience.
Reach out for forgiveness. Go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation and get a new start.
Invite the Holy Spirit to work in you, for you, and through you.
Talk to others. Share your struggles. Ask them for support.
Unbutton your Bible, open it up and read it.
Persist in your journey of faith. Keep stirring!
