Fire, unlike most other light sources, has the unique ability to bring people together. Be it the glow of a campfire, the celebratory burning of birthday candles, or even the tragedy of a house fire, we follow its signals – the smell, the smoke, the warmth, and we will gather to watch it burn. Fire captivates, beckons, and attracts.

Consider the story of the exodus, of the Israelites escaping captivity in Egypt (Exodus 13:17-22).

Making bricks had been your entire existence. For as far back as you can remember, it had been all your people had ever done. Your parents done it before you, and theirs before them, and you were sure it was the fate that awaited your children, until…

You had heard all the stories – of the days when your people had lived peaceably, never wanting for anything, at rest with your God and others. You had heard of the promise of God, that freedom from this misery would be realized. But that seemed impossible, until…

The rumors began circulating almost immediately. Moses, Pharaoh’s long lost son had returned, to challenge his brother – but not for the throne of Egypt. No, power was not what he sought. He came for freedom, the freedom of his people the Israelites. He claimed to be on mission from God, but you couldn’t be sure, until…

The plagues had cast any doubt you had so far from your mind. The insects, the illness, the death – it had all been a sure sign that the time had come. You had waited in expectation, watching as it all fell apart for the Egyptians, watching as any last semblance of control crumbled beneath them, until…

You gathered with the rest of your people – family and friends, neighbors and loved ones, ready to embark on the long journey to freedom. With trepidation and fear you joined the pack, not knowing what lie ahead. Is this right? Does anyone really know where you are going or how long it will take to get there? Should you be embarking on such a long journey, not knowing what dangers await you? You are about to turn around, to return to what you’ve always known, until…

The pillar of fire appears suddenly, hovering far above your people. Dazzling against the night sky you can sense it beckoning you, calling you forward. It’s at once beautiful and mysterious and even a little dangerous, but you can’t help it, you must know what is next, what it’s trying to lead you toward. You can sense God’s presence in the fire, and you resolve to follow it wherever it leads.

Questions for reflection:

• Have you ever had a Donald Miller-jazz moment, where your love for something developed only after watching someone else love it well?
• Can you identify at least one model of zealous faith in your personal life? How has that person passed the torch of faith to you?
• How might your passion, or lack of passion, be affecting those around you?
• What can you eliminate or begin doing today to help increase your passion for God?