We often think of this as a burning away.
Fire is more complicated though. Stare into the flames and you become memorised and day dream. Warmed by it we become inspired.
Fire can destroy us, but it can also change us, and help us survive in places the are inhospitable to human being.
We took time out to reflect on the nature of fire, spend time getting to know it, and discovering the presence of God in nature.
We were inspired by the Dumfries Baptist centre cross that was Forged by Nathan, and he even came along to help people hammer out some autumnal copper leaves.
We reflected on verses describing the use of fire to refine perishable gold.
Also the destructive power of fire, burning away falsehood – perhaps exemplified by the prophet Elijah (as remembered by the sons of thunder).
But hopefully everyone left refreshed by the fire which blazes without burning up. The descriptions of Moses encountering God through the burning bush, and the encouragement and comfort kindled in us by the Holy Spirit keep us going, even as the nights draw in.
