2 minute read
Following the Son
CONSUMING FIRE
photo and writing by Michele Hughes
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“From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the Lord is to be praised!” Psalm 113:3 ESV
Sunrise or sunset? Do you have a favorite? If you are like most people, you love both. Even so, you likely miss the sunrise due to work or simply because you are not a morning person. And you probably don’t take time to enjoy the sunset because you are too busy using the time to unwind, reflecting on the day, or even putting the day behind you.
Missing the sunrise, for me, can mean missing out on the most beautiful experience of the day. I have the privilege of living just fifteen minutes from the east coast of Florida, giving me the luxury of experiencing the sunrise from the shore. Often, I spend this time with just the Lord - this is where the magic happens. As I watch the sun peek out over the horizon, the day comes alive, inevitably helping me feel better and making me more productive, positive, energetic, and appreciative.
As I walked the beach one particular morning, I was drawn to the fire in the sky - the sun - as it rose under the pier. And then I noticed what looked like a fire in the sand - the reflection of the rising sun. This visual of fire stopped me in my tracks! Then and there, the Holy Spirit spoke to me and said I needed to stoke the fire.
Sometimes we can get too comfortable, too relaxed, enjoy too much freedom as we soak up all the good things life has to offer. I felt God stir in me a desire to do more. 1 Peter 4:10 (ESV) says, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.”
It was at that time that doors opened for me to get involved in Women World Leaders. I became a contributor to Voice of Truth magazine and joined the leadership team.
Galatians 5:13,14 (ESV) says, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’”
Whether you like the sunrise or the sunset best, and no matter where you live, I encourage you to take the time to enjoy God’s beautiful display that He gives us every day. And while you are there, take time to listen to what He has to say to you. His plans are magnificent!
