Attention Needed!

My wife and I have just returned from two weeks of tent camping. Though we do enjoy spending some time this way, we are always glad to get back to our more established residence (our house) and all the conveniences that come with it (especially a regular bed). During our time away we enjoyed sharing some one-on-one time with three of our grandchildren, I had the opportunity to preach on a Sunday morning where our oldest son ministers and teaches, and simply enjoyed being out amidst God’s beautiful creation. The second week was time for my wife and I to just relax and refocus together. We both kept up on our daily Bible reading and I also spent some time thinking about my involvement in ministry and -- with the help of God -- what the future may hold for the congregation here in Port Townsend, Washington.

Three places of quiet meditation our camping provided were (1) sitting beside a river enjoying the sound of the waters rushing by, (2) walking in the cool of the forest where a sense of calm was easily gained observing the many shades of green and the refreshing moistness of the air, and (3) sitting in the evening around a small campfire, watching the FLAMES lick around the pieces of wood.

Relationships, faith, and many other aspects of life are like fires; they go out if left unattended. They need to be stirred. Sometimes some shifting is necessary. More needs to be added. However, in the process light and warmth for life are the result.

Sometimes the fire is present in a life, but a reminder is needed to fan the FLAME as Peter wrote…
“(12) Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. (13) I think it right, as long as I am in this body, TO STIR YOU UP BY WAY OF REMINDER,” ( 2 Peter 1:12-13 ESV)

What Peter had written wasn’t new. The qualities he had listed ( 2 Peter 1:5-7) as contributing to fruitful and productive knowledge of the Lord had been taught before. However, Peter wanted to be certain that even when his departure from this realm came, the FLAME of the essence of Christianity would continue among them. The Greek used in verse 13 translated “stir” comes from a word which literally refers to being aroused or awakened from sleep. From time to time we need to be stirred to awaken the embers causing the FLAME of our faith to burn brighter.

This need for strong faith must be given attention. Our relationships within the body of Christ are also not to be taken for granted. Left unattended the spark may go out. We need each other!

The Hebrew writer exhorted…
“(24) And let us consider how TO STIR UP ONE ANOTHER TO LOVE AND GOOD WORKS, (25) not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but ENCOURAGING ONE ANOTHER, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” ( Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV)

The Greek word translated “stir” in this passage is different from Peter ’s statement. The word here refers to a sharpening such as that of feelings or actions. It is to incite. The heat of the coals of the faith of some within the fellowship of the church can help to incite action of faith in others. We need such and also need to offer the same as we join in fellowship regularly with other Christians.

Unattended the FLAME can go out. May we each continue to be attentive to the ways in which we can encourage the faith of others and how we will be mutually benefited by doing so.

Have a great day STOKING THE FIRES OF FAITH AND FELLOWSHIP!
Carl

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