Greetings, dear friends. I'm Pastor Loren Christensen, and I'm excited to continue our journey through the transformative themes of our recent sermon in today's episode of "A Word from the Vine." Our focus remains on living our divine calling as pastors, and today, we delve into the crucial topic of reigniting that divine flame within us.
Our guiding scripture for this episode comes from 1 Kings 19:4: "But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he asked that he might die, saying, 'It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers.'"
Now, this verse brings us to a profound moment in the life of the prophet Elijah. Despite his victories and divine encounters, there came a time when he felt weary, discouraged, and ready to give up. In his desperation, Elijah's experience under the broom tree mirrors the moments we all face when the flame within us dims, and the divine calling feels like a heavy burden.
In these moments, it's crucial to recognize that we are not alone. Even the most dedicated servants of God, like Elijah, faced moments of weariness. So, how do we rekindle the divine flame within us? How do we return to the source of our calling and reignite the passion that fuels our way of life?
Firstly, we must consider Elijah's response to his weariness. He retreated into the wilderness. He sought solitude, away from the noise and demands of his daily life. In our own lives, we need moments of retreat, prayer, and reflection. Returning to the source of our calling requires intentional and dedicated time with our Heavenly Father.
Consider the moments in your life when the flame burned brightest. Perhaps it was during a retreat, a powerful worship service, or an unexpected encounter with God. These moments are not isolated; they are invitations to cultivate a vibrant prayer life.
Prayer is not merely a religious duty; it is a lifeline to the source of our divine calling. Look at Jesus Himself—He constantly sought solitude for prayer, drawing strength from His Father. Colleagues, let's not neglect this vital aspect of our divine way of life. Let's prioritize moments of communion with God, allowing His presence to reignite the passion within us.
As we reflect on Elijah's journey under the broom tree, may it serve as a reminder that weariness is part of the human experience. But in those weary moments, we have the opportunity to return to the source, to seek God earnestly, and to invite a revival of the passion that fuels our divine way of life.
Thank you for joining me on this episode of "A Word from the Vine." Stay tuned for more insights and inspiration as we continue to explore the beauty and depth of God's Word together. Until next time, may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
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