Fire is a rather small word, which entails huge changes, though.
Fire brought a major revolution in cooking and eating, not only in terms of flavour but also regarding hygiene and the process of assimilation of proteins.
Fire conquered the roughness of winter and created an altogether different picture: we can affirm that houses became homes thanks to fire. In many languages “home” is said in a way that reminds of the presence of the fireplace.
Fire was the first means to overcoming darkness. The hours of consciousness, the time to be aware and to be able to talk, discuss or pray, were extended. People could encounter each other in a different way, not only in relation to work, survival or warfare. Most ancient paintings have been found in dark caves, that once were enlightened by torches and lamps.
Yet, long before that, the very birth of life on this planet was possible because of the gigantic burning fire which is the Sun itself. From this perspective, it is understandable that so many peoples have worshipped the Sun, because of its power, beauty and countless benefits.
We need fire. That is all I like to stress today. We need lots of other things as well, but without fire we cannot conquer the spiritual winter most of the Western world dwells in nowadays.
We need good ideas, good relationships, good techniques, but first and foremost we need good fire. Dare I to say “foolproof fire”? It is a weird expression, but could help to highlight that the Fire we are in need of is far more than enthusiasm. Some excitement is required to get our hands into the work, but mere exhilaration will not lead us too far on the road.
The foolproof Fire is the Fire that governs our very thoughts. The foolproof Fire is the one that guides our memory and heart, our feelings and words in such a way that we bear the fruit that truly lasts.
This could be a new name for the Holy Spirit: Foolproof Fire. Not without a reason we invoke Him so often and so wholeheartedly.