When Dr. Phineas Bresee was in process of becoming pastor of the Methodist Episcopal church in Pasadena somebody asked him what he intended to do there. He said he intended, by the grace of God, to make a fire that would reach heaven.

What would our answer be if someone asked us what we intend to do in Pasadena? Personally, I like Dr. Bresee’s answer, and I’m not sure it can be improved on. John the Baptist said that Jesus would baptize people with the Holy Spirit and fire (Matt. 3:11). In that case, let’s light the fire.

Do we have what it takes to light the fire of God in our town? A good question, but first we ought to ask ourselves whether or not the fire of God is ablaze in our own heart. If it is aflame it is because the Holy Spirit has been set free in us to do the work of God; and when the Holy Spirit is free to do the work of God, watch out because we will find ourselves in the marvelous wonder of divine intervention, guidance, power, revival and, yes, even “the greater works,” Jesus promised His Church would do (John 14:12).

Dr. Bresee’s ministry in Pasadena ended in 1890. Later he would lead an effort to began a new church that would be called, The Church of the Nazarene. Today the work goes on, but I wonder if the fire is still burning. Is it burning with the glorious intensity of the Holy Spirit? Whatever the answer, may God help us to make sure that we are a people who will keep the fire kindled.

Get in touch with God and let Him ignite the fire in fresh new ways. Then let’s do all in our power to be faithful so that the fire will reach heaven.