So, we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:16 The aroma of oil and coal smoke swamped Matt’s senses as he hauled spadesful of raw coal into the fire. He had been invited by his friend, Keith to ride in the cab of a steam engine. The fire roared and the engine steamed forward a great pace along the track.
“How do you know the best place to throw the coal,” asked Matt as he wiped the sweat from his brow. “Look for the dark patches in the fire,” said Keith.
“The dark patches are where the fire is dwindling and needs to be stoked.”
Jesus taught a parable about 10 young girls who, according to the culture of the day, were responsible for watching for the coming of the bridegroom at a Jewish wedding. They each held an oil lamp as they watched and waited. Sadly, five of them did not bring sufficient fuel for their lamps and ran out.
Referring to his return, Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, watch, therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”
Faith is a fire in your heart. Jesus said, “Nevertheless when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” Jesus is physically returning to earth, soon! Are we ready and waiting? Are our lamps trimmed and fueled?
As the fireman on the plate of a steam engine looks out for the cooler dark patches in the fire so he can refuel it with fresh coal, so you and I need to examine our lives to identify the dark areas that are growing cold and pour in the fuel of God’s Word and Spirit. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day as we stoke the fire of faith.