Few things compare to the simple joy of gathering around a campfire—roasting marshmallows, sharing stories, and watching the flames dance into the night. Growing up as a Girl Scout, I learned the art of building fires, each method chosen with intention, whether for warmth, cooking, or simply enjoying the glow. The process requires care, patience, and an understanding that a fire, like many aspects of life, must be tended to in order to thrive.
This summer, my congregation is reflecting on “campfire” stories in the Bible, drawing inspiration from the tongues of fire at Pentecost in Acts 2, the burning bush of Exodus, and other powerful moments where fire represents divine presence and transformation. In exploring these stories, we are also considering the role of fire as a metaphor for our own faith journeys, personal growth, and relationships.
Building a Fire, Building a Life
Before lighting a fire, you must first choose the right place—an open space, clear of obstacles and ready for something new to take shape. In life, growth also begins with openness—a willingness to embrace change, new opportunities, and unexpected sparks of inspiration.
The first element of any fire is tinder—small, dry materials that ignite quickly and get things started. In our personal journeys, these are the little nudges that inspire us to explore something deeper, whether it’s a thought-provoking conversation, a new interest, or an unexpected challenge. Sometimes, when the conditions aren’t ideal—when life feels dampened by discouragement or uncertainty—we need “fire starters,” sources of motivation and encouragement, to help us get going.
Next comes the kindling—slightly larger sticks that catch fire and provide a stronger foundation for the flames. In life, kindling represents the habits and routines that help us grow, such as reading, prayer, meditation, or acts of kindness. These small but consistent practices help establish a steady flame, but they require attention and commitment to keep them from fading.
Then, to sustain the fire, you need larger logs—fuel wood that burns steadily and provides long-lasting warmth. These represent the deeper, more meaningful rhythms of life that shape who we are. They are the relationships we invest in, the values we uphold, and the moments that define us. They give us stability and endurance, much like a well-built fire provides lasting heat and comfort.
Tending to the Fires in Our Lives
As St. Catherine of Siena once said, “Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire.” Whether we are nurturing our faith, building relationships, or striving to become the best versions of ourselves, the process is much like building a fire. We need space to grow, small sparks of inspiration to ignite us, steady habits to keep us going, and deep, lasting commitments to sustain us.
This summer, take a moment to reflect on the fires in your own life. What sparks your passion? What routines help you grow? What lasting commitments keep your flame burning strong? And along the way, don’t forget to enjoy the warmth, the light, and perhaps even a few s’mores.
