Space for more fire?

After having emptied our fireplaces for ashes yesterday, I shared some thoughts with my Norwegian friends – and follow up with an English version on the first day of the New Year. Of course, taking out the ashes can happen several times during a year, but the frequency depends on how much the house and the fireplaces have been used. As I write this, I once again listen to the crackling of the flames in one of them, and the other two are ready for use when needed.

Looking back on 2018, there are a lot of ashes from both good and less good experiences. Although I love history, I want to be a person who lifts his eyes and looks forward; one who does not dwell so long with the issues of the past that there is no room for new initiatives, new fire and growth in the kingdom of God in the present.

Occasionally, I get distressed when I look at the framework we make for the mission in God's Kingdom. However, a framework can be both useful and important - they are fireplaces. 2018 will also be remembered for several serious fires in many different locations around the world due to fires that came out of control. God has given us frames to work within and the many of the church structures are put in place to support God’s fire. Perhaps the problem is not the framework or the structure, but the fact that the ashes tend to accumulate within the structures, not leaving space for more fire?

Don’t revel only in the past, or spend all your time recounting the victories of days gone by.Watch closely: I am preparing something new; it’s happening now, even as I speak, and you’re about to see it.Isaiah 43:18-19 (The Voice)

Have a blessed 2019!