Heirs to the hearth

George Sneddon May 28, 2024 7 6

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Romans 8: 12-17 (NIVUK)

12 Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation – but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. 13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.

14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. 15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’ 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 17 Now if we are children, then we are heirs – heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

When I was wee, our house had a coal fire. Though long gone, it is a fond reminder of the special effects of fire in a home. I remember that it was always roasting warm. A flame doesn’t have a thermostat, you see. You can’t digitise a flame so that it only hits a certain temperature. It burns as it is made to burn. I remember in cold winter mornings, eating my breakfast in front of it, the heat gently toasting my face, protected only by the fireguard. The pleasure of this wildfire in my house, is like the honour of the Holy Spirit in my heart.

I wonder if your hearth is lit? I wonder if the presence within you is heating and warming those around you. Can they tell the difference? Can they see you bless the ones who hurt you? Can they see you rejoice in difficulty? Can they see you coming alongside for two miles and not just one? How is your heart hearth lit today? Is the Spirit on fire within?

Prayer:

Lord, my hearth is prepared.
I have built up the coal,
the sticks
the paper
it’s a neat pile
the matches are waiting
strike one Lord
and set me on fire
that all might see and know
that you dwell in me
Amen