Embrace | Transform | Ignite

EMBRACE: A sign of affection but also of acceptance or support.

 In Genesis 29:13 - 'As soon as Laban heard the news about Jacob, his sister’s son, he hurried to meet him. He embraced him and kissed him and brought him to his home, and there Jacob told him all these things. '

The Prodigal Son: At some point in our lives, we have all been like the prodigal son or daughter. We should embrace individuals, show them acceptance, help them grow, and achieve Christian maturity in their faith. It’s important to let them know they are not alone on their journey.

Transform: make a thorough or dramatic change

2 Corinthians 3:18: “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.”

Transform… When you think of the word "transform," you think of changing something. It reminds me of the story of Cinderella, where the Fairy Godmother changed Cinderella’s appearance for the prince’s ball. He did not recognize her because she had a new look. God does the same with us. As we discover who God is in our lives, He transforms us daily into His image.

When we look in the mirror, we no longer see the same person. The way we dress, speak, and even think changes. Old friends we used to hang out with may no longer recognize who we are because we have been transformed into a new creation in Christ. Just like Cinderella in the story, we may not recognize ourselves after this transformation.

As we dive deeper into the Word of God, we continue to change and be molded into who He wants us to be. Don't be discouraged if the change doesn’t happen overnight; it is a daily process. One day, when you least expect it, you will look back on everything that has happened and see yourself as God sees you.

 IGNITE: To set on fire.

In Luke 3:16, John answered them all, “I baptize you with water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”

To ignite means to set something on fire. God did not intend for us to be filled with the Holy Spirit and keep it to ourselves. He desires for us to ask Him to set us ablaze for Him. We need to seek that all-consuming fire as earnestly as we seek water every day.

Don’t allow yourself to be intimidated by the idea of the fire. Questions like, “What will happen if I get lost in the fire? Am I strong enough to withstand it? What if I break? What will I become?” may arise, but do not fear. He is with you in the fire. He will fill you with His power, enabling you to fulfill God’s calling for your life.

Just as a spark can ignite a flame, we can come together to create a blaze that will set this world on fire for God.