The Fire that Changes Lives

Today I was contacted through Face Book by a young man that I have not heard from for years. In looking at his picture (and the grey hair) he is not so young anymore but then I suspect the abundance of grey hair on me is a bit telling as well. We parted ways several years ago and the parting while not hostile, was not all that amiable either. He had come to me seeking advice and a bit of direction concerning some life issues. As we went deeper in our conversations over the weeks and months it became apparent that there were some very concerning character issues on his part that was really at the root most of his difficulties but there was no desire to make any changes in the way he dealt with them. He not only parted company with me but left our church and sad to say in an offended state.

This young man moved to another church, dated and married a young woman and in time became part of the staff of is new church. However, through common friends, I knew that the life issues had not been dealt with but rather masked (in very deceitful ways) and yet he was able to attain a certain level of success.

It was a bit strange visiting with him today as he was once again looking for relationship with me. I have no problem with that but as I asked a few probing questions I learned that he is divorced, unemployed not in fellowship with any church. When I asked him about the church thing he said he just feels so rejected by “the church”. He told me that he has been looking but they all feel the same to him and can’t connect. It’s been nearly twenty years since we last talked and there I was hearing the same words as then. Not much has changed.

So what’s your point in all this Matt? I have heard for so long that the way to have a truly God filled life is to completely immerse ones self in the River. Not just up to your knees or waist but rather you must fully immerse yourself in the River or Lake and take it all in. What hasn’t been said is that it is a River of Fire, a Lake of Fire if you will (thank you Pastor Norm). The only way for any of us to change is to submit to the process that removes the earthly dross and reveals our true identity, our God specific nature and allow Him to make the changes that will truly deal with our life issues. You want a better life? Crave change, the change that comes from a burning that is revealing, one that removes the masks, one that purifies our soul, one that allows us to truly be real.

Over my many years I have know too many people who wake up one day, somewhat later in life, and wonder how on earth did I get here? This isn’t where I thought I would be or worse this isn’t who I thought I would be and too many of them are Christians. And yet there was never the pursuit to make a deliberate, conscious submission the The Fire. Without passionate intent “The Burn” will never happen.