A Fire and A Baptism

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Scripture: Luke 12:49-50 (NRSV)

49 “I came to bring fire to the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! 50 I have a baptism with which to be baptized, and what stress I am under until it is completed!

Devotion:

            It is easy to believe that Jesus came to bring peace and well-being to the earth. Indeed, there are many passages that tell us about Jesus' desire for peace on earth. However, there are also passages like the one above that tell a different story. What could Jesus mean when he says he has come to bring a fire upon the earth? What kind of baptism is he to undergo? Jesus says these things to explain the purpose of his coming in ways that we can never forget.

            We need to have the eyes of our spirit opened so we can see what these words of Jesus meant to those who first read them and what they mean for us. The fire that Jesus talks about here could mean a fire of purification and cleansing. The world in Jesus' day right up to today is in desperate need of a purifying fire from God. It could also mean the fire of the Holy Spirit that came down and rested on the believers on the day of Pentecost. A fire that comes down and remains on believers to this day. It is difficult to know which meaning is to be preferred. I prefer the latter, but the other is not wrong.

            As for the baptism that Jesus is to undergo, this we must stretch our imaginations a little farther. We generally think of baptism as immersing, sprinkling, or pouring of water on someone as a sign and seal of their membership in the church. As I checked my Greek dictionary, I discovered three columns of meanings for the Greek word baptizo. These included such entries as to wash or clean, to overwhelm, among others. Again, finding the best translation is difficult, but our standard definition is not a viable choice. I go with overwhelm.

            Jesus clearly knew that his death and resurrection would divide the world into those who believed in him and those who did not. This division would stretch across nations, ethnic groups, and families. He desired that this baptism would happen soon. He was eager to take up his cross. In order to complete the mission that his Father had sent him to accomplish.

            We still see the results of that fire and baptism in our world today. The fires of revival and awakening are already beginning to be seen in our country today. I, like Jesus, long to see those fires burn in every corner of this land.

Prayer:

May the good news of salvation and redemption sweep across this land dear Lord. May we not quench the Holy Spirit as it burns in our souls with the fire of revival. Awaken our dead hearts to your holiness and purity so that we may see our poor rags and disobedience very clearly. May we be open to the move of God no matter our age, race, or economic status. Lead us to repentance so that we will see your hand move across this land in a mighty way. May the fire you kindle in our land ignite fires around the world. May all the world come to know you through the preaching of your Son. Amen. 

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