Keep the "Inner Fire" Burning

"The fire on the altar shall be kept burning on it.  It shall not go out....Fire shall be kept burning continually on the altar; it is not to go out." (Leviticus 6:12a, 13--NASB) 

Twice He said, "kept burning" and "not go out."  Paul told Timothy, "Fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you."  Whatever "gift" Paul was referring to, the greatest is the gift of continual "burning" fellowship in Jesus Christ on the "altar" of my heart. 

And how is the "fire" burning today on the altar of your heart?  We are not talking of fanaticism "fire" or emotional "fire."  That has been nothing but an affront to the Church.  Neither do I think does it just apply to a 24/7 prayer of the Church, though I strongly believe in the endeavor.  This is continual fellowship, an eternal communion in the Blessed Trinity in Jesus Christ, in the Church gatherings, the vehicle, the office, the "everywheres" of life.  It is what Brother Lawrence attempted to describe as, "The Practice of the Presence of God."  In this pursuit, will there be moments, days, perhaps seasons when I don't seem as "spiritual" as others?  Of course.  But don't you suspect that there is something far deeper here than just religious, feel-good, sketchy moments, seasons?

I confess, much greater men and women have attempted to describe this fire "burning continually on the altar."  But maybe this can help.  Sarah once told me that I was "always right here"----- she was pointing to her forehead.  Perhaps this beautiful expression helps to describe what God desires with us.  Jesus is "always right here." (You know where I'm pointing.)

Father, in Jesus' Name, Oh, Blessed Living Triune God, may You be "always right here!"  Amen.  


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