STEP ONE: BREATHE

Take a deep, cleansing breath. Allow the air to fill your lungs and expand your body. Exhale and empty yourself into the room. Repeat three times - once for the one who Created you, once for the Incarnate One who walks beside you, and once for the Spirit whose life fills your being.

STEP TWO: DWELL IN WORD

The Parable of the Fire Table:

The Kingdom of God is like a fire table on a patio. When it is turned on, the flames dance over the lava rocks (or glass beads). Its warmth and light set an atmosphere that is inviting for friends and family to gather around. When off, it waits with great potential. All it takes to activate it is the turning of a valve and the ignition of a spark.

A Question to Ponder:

Where can you shine the light of friendship today?

STEP THREE: PRAY

Gracious God,

burn in my heart the flames of your compassion. Ignite within my spirit a passion for life. Let me see by your light the truth of your love and care for all people. Illumine a space in the darkness of fear, prejudice, hatred, and separation so that I might be able to see a path toward peace, reconciliation, and hospitality.

Through Christ, Amen.