Soul Medicine

              

There’s some inherent connection between us and fire. I don’t think I’ve ever met any man who didn’t like staring into a fire once he’s tried it. Men were gathering around fires and staring into them in all recorded history, so it’s not a new fad by any means. But what is it about fire that catches our gaze and calms our spirit? I’ve seen very troubled men get relief and healing in their souls around campfires. I always feel the calming effect the fire has on my own scrambled brains so I can attest to the treatment. We, as men of God have known responsibilities and standards to uphold in life. And the burden mismanaged, can overwhelm and discourage us to the point of spiritual paralysis. The pace and logistics of modern life make it hard to slow down and focus on maintaining order in our minds. Self-examination is easier in front of fire. Making future plans is somehow smoother there. But I don’t want to get away from the real Giver of peace to men’s souls, Jesus. He said “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Try some of that action in front of a fire and you might float out of your camp chair in a peaceful brain cloud. Yeah boys, the combo of a pensive time with God and a nice fire is hard to beat. And I recommend it as a regular treatment if you can.