There is something awe inspiring about a blazing fire! it could be a bonfire celebrating some event or just those glowing coals and curling flames of an open fire at home or out camping. Fire can also destroy forests and property and tragically, human life too.

We learn at an early age to respect fire, but it is still fascinating to watch. Fire is so alive with energy. I recall as a youngster seeing a large building on fire and been spellbound as I watched flames reaching skyward. But all our experiences of fire pale into insignificance when we think of the heat and power that is generated in a nuclear reactor core.

In the Christian context of fire, I find it encouraging to remember that the Holy Spirit is not only symbolized by fire but is in fact fire. We touch on something here which seems too hard for our finite minds to comprehend. However, when we think of the intensity of the sun, we grasp a little of what God’s presence would be like. When the disciple John had a vision of Christ, the eyes of the Lord were like blazing fire, his feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace and his face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance. Rev. 1:14-16 NIV.

When the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost there was a sound of a very strong wind, and tongues of fire came to rest on each of those present. A dynamic and instant change began to take place, and it was manifested by them beginning to talk in inspired languages. It was in fact, Jesus anointing his disciples with the Holy Ghost and fire.

God wants us to be anointed with the Holy Ghost so we can live our Christian lives in the power of that fire… the Spirit of Christ!

Ref. Luke 3:16, Acts 2:3-4 NIV.