From a Spark to a Shining Light
Written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“He makes his messengers winds, his ministers a flaming fire.”
Growing up, one of the youth group’s favorite songs was, “It only takes a spark.” “It only takes a spark to get a fire going. That’s how it is with God’s love…”. Through the many years of ordained ministry, I’ve found it much easier to create a spark and get a fire going than to keep it going over time. A spark brings excitement to the moment. Sustaining a fire takes discipline because even good things become routine or expected.
John P. Weiss, in his article, “How Bright your Candle Burns Is All About Choices,” addresses ways to keep the fire within alight. Weiss reminds us of a beautiful quote by Charles Dickens, “No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.” One way of renewing your inner flame is to reach out and care for others. Helping and improving another’s life is fuel for our fire.
Weiss warns, “A flame can go out at any moment.” To keep our flame vibrant, we must not fall into a rut. Boredom and cynicism occur when living in an uninspiring routine becomes normative. It is our responsibility to challenge ourselves regularly. When we feel complacent, moving beyond our comfort zone is required. When we get up and do something for others, we begin to climb out of our complacency.
Finally, creating a robust and sustained flame happens when we dream big and attempt to make those dreams come true. As people of faith, when we prayerfully invite God into our vision, God opens doors to make those visions a reality. The more we realize hopes and dreams, the stronger our inner flame shines. Dream big about serving others, and your spiritual fire will burn all your life brightly and for all eternity.
