Fire has long been a sign of God’s presence, from Moses before the burning bush, to Elijah carried to heaven in a fiery chariot, to Jesus whose eyes are described as flames of fire. Each time we light a candle, we are reminded of these moments when God revealed Himself through light and warmth. As we pray with Father Will, may the light of Jesus shine in our hearts and be made known in every moment of prayer.
Transcript
When you’re around a campfire, it’s hard not to sit and gaze into the depths of the fire. It dances over the wood; it cracks and bursts with joy; it emanates a heat that provides warmth and comfort, but a fire is also dangerous, we can easily get burned if we don’t handle with care. For generations, fire has represented the presence of God. Think back to the burning bush of the story of Moses, a consuming fire, but not overwhelming it. God spoke to Moses from the fiery tree. Upon the mountain God’s presence would often leave a smoke implying a fiery attendance. Think back also to Elijah, in a fiery chariot, was taken up into heaven. This simple action of lighting a candle might pale in comparison to a burning bush, and a fiery chariot, but it calls to mind all those biblical moments and the fiery moments of our lives where God’s presence was known and felt. And so, this might seem like a simple gesture but it’s dense with meaning. So, as we light this candle, may we be aware of God’s presence at this time, that in prayer, we might truly be consumed but not overwhelmed by God.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Heavenly Father, ignite the flame of Your presence within our lives. Help us to burn with passion for Your Kingdom. Remove from us, all that is not from You, let Your purifying mercy wash over us again. That made radiant by Your love, we might carry the light of Jesus’ resurrection. To all those who live in darkness. Equip us with the fire of the Holy Spirit to be missionary disciples. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.