Articles
Light The Fire!
Undulation And Reflections
There is a certain inevitability of undulation (i.e. ups & downs) in our lives. It’s inescapable. Trauma, conflict, stress, and innumerable other triggers set pivot points in each of our own personal chronologies. If all of us reflect, we can pinpoint these transition markers, acknowledge catalysts, and trace our transport between the crests and troughs. No philosopher or psychologist is needed for this eye-opening enterprise.
As beneficial as such reflective exercises are, there is danger if contemplation causes us to escape the responsibilities of the present. As Paul wisely said, “forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14). Naturally though, such inspired advice should not be over-generalized or over-applied. Reflection provides insight; reflection provides illumination; reflection inspires improvement. Thus the prolific biblical injunction and example to meditate, contemplate, and consider (Psalms 4:4; 77:6; Proverbs 24:32; et al). God’s inspired writings are replete with reflections, particularly on God’s works in the lives of His people – “I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your doings; I muse on the work of Your hands” (Psalms 143:5).
What Are Your Pivot Points?
As you reflect on your pivot points, do you notice patterns? Are there triggers that seem to always be your hang-up? Are there unbroken habits that always send you plummeting from Everest to Death Valley? Conversely, what patterns do you see in past moments of ascendance and constructive metamorphosis? What episodes transpired to skyrocket you out of the shadowy crevasses and upwards? Or perhaps there was a series of catalysts that contributed to a steadier climb out of those pits? What are YOUR pivot points?
Are your pivot points traumas? Perhaps even something that at the time you lacked the perspective you have now and could see no benefit in at the time? I know I have these moments and they cause me to adore the omniscience of God. There have been moments in my life where I have even shaken my fist at God and demanded answers, all to what appeared at the time to be deafening silence from His throne. Now I know better.
Are your pivot points blessings? Were they moments where all seemed in-sync and you felt unstoppable? All was running smoothly. Church was inspiring. Work was great. Home life was perfect. Your finances were in pristine order. Perhaps they may have even directly preceded a calamity in which your sense of peace and serenity (façade or actual) came crashing down. Or perhaps it was just a time of unparalleled blessing.
It is possible as you reflect that you may overlook certain realities that were more potent in the moment. After all, the armchair we sit in now may have been a bed of nails then. Yet even in these reflections, clarity can be had if we will maintain humility and composure.
Our Meeting And Our Hope
We sometimes sing a little hymn entitled “Light The Fire.” You don’t have to be an arsonist to appreciate the sentiment of the image. Fire is attractive, alluring, and mesmerizing. While oftentimes indicative of judgment and condemnation, it nevertheless carries the image of power and might, commitment and zeal, love and passion. That’s why we sing the song! And it’s a beautiful song of empowerment. If you don’t know it, look it up and meditate upon the lyrics. We assure you this song (and other such songs) will aid in your spirituality and discipleship.
Brother and sister, we want God to light a fire in you. We want Him to fuel that fire in a way you never could have dreamed. We want you to reflect on your life, see God’s guidance throughout it, and allow that reflection to emblazon you in the present and the future. Hopefully our little exercise opens up advantageous avenues of thought you had heretofore not explored and allows you to spiritually revive by the almighty hand of God. I hope and pray it will. Let’s sharpen each other and may God empower, enliven, and enrich your service to Him whether you find yourselves in the pits or the pinnacles!
