The Fast and The Fire

Worship ignites the soul.  Prayer fuels the inferno.

At the core of the church there's a fire, a love for Christ that burns hot and bright. The searing heat of that brilliant flame warms the pulpit and ignites the congregation. When God sets the leaders of a church ablaze, the entire congregation feels the burn. 

We've been fasting this month. We've been praying.

It's in times of fasting and prayer that I often hear more clearly from God. Sometimes there's a new understanding of scripture; sometimes I hear God's whisper; sometimes God brings conviction through a trusted friend. 

That's what happened a couple of days ago.

God used Rob Wegner to bring me this NT Wright quote. God set Rob on fire with these words, then Rob torched me. Read Wright's words...and let the conflagration roar.   

"...when Tiberius or Nero came to power, the imperial heralds did not go around saying, 'There is this new experience you might like to try on for size, namely, you might like to give allegiance to Caesar if that suits you and if that's where you are right now in your own personal journey.' No, they said, 'Tiberius is emperor! Get down on your knees!'"   (NT Wright)

God, make your church courageous.
   Save us from tepid preaching.
      Deliver us from cold hearts, weak wills and mushy faith.
         Jesus is Lord.
            Help us boldly proclaim it.
               Amen.