Fireside

Sunday night we had an authentic fireside for the youth. We drove out to Genoa to the other seminary teacher's "back 40" and held a bonfire on her property. Bishop used the fire and coals as an object lesson to teach the kids the importance of going to seminary, church, activities, etc. Like coals, when individuals are separated from the group, they quickly lose their heat. The reverse is true also. When a lone coal is placed back in the group of hot coals and fire, the coal will become bright again.

Several other comparisons were made that night. My favorite one was from the Young Mens President. He said that when dating, the youth should avoid the"wet blankets" that will extinguish their fires. I also pointed out how fire is essential in a wilderness survival situation. It can mean the difference between life and death. I likened that to our spiritual survival. Without a burning testimony, we will die spiritually.

I hope the messages hit home with the kids that were there. It was hard for me to tell. I know the evening gave me something to think about. I'm especially grateful that I find myself in the middle of the fire right now. All this sleep deprivation is worth it when I think of the spiritual benefits of being in the heat of things.