Breath of Life, Soil of our Souls, water and blood gushing within – and now ancient and life-giving star-fire – within, around, between, beyond. Fire, flame, passion, eros – the stuff, lust and zest of life – the full-orbed orientation to and appreciation of the unity, diversity and beauty of everything and everyone! God of flame and fire, heat, warmth and passion -we celebrate this divine spark within, the divine seed in us all.

Fiery balls flung into space inhabit and confound the darkness; this life-infused universe is sparkled, dazzled with love and fire and beckons us to be the light. We commit with joy and newfound sense of awareness that we hide not our lives and essence under a clay pot, but let ourselves go and shine so that others would be encouraged and live in gratitude! We celebrate the essence and reality of divine presence and ancient fire in each atom, plant and animal, each bird, fish, man and woman. May we this day honor all that is life-evoking – the blazing stars - those close and those outside of telescope’s reach…as well as the tiniest electrons orbiting crazily around all that is.

We unleash this day the sparks of fire-life planted in each of us: In our gifts, talents, unique skills, language, gestures, smiles, laughter, tears. In and through our personality styles and even disorders – all that might enliven and enhance. May the life that is so strong within each of us be a source of life and love for those around: Those struggling, those overwhelmed, those grieving, those battling, those adjusting, people in peace, people ripped with violence. Those in Iraq, Sudan, Somalia, Virginia. Our families and friends…those we do not know. As Jesus claimed to be light, so too do we claim to be light – as we have been rightly described. And might our light illuminate the darker and gray corners of our lives and in this beautiful and hurting world.

Countless wonders abide and surround….so may we open our eyes and minds to it all to more fully enjoy salvation and infinite life - in the hear and now and for all time. Would we encounter ourselves and those around aglow with love, peace, passion, fairness and gentleness – for we are one extended family thriving with differences and particularities – and yet in common blood, fire, ground and spirit. We pause and pray in honor of the God of fire, in honor of us all, in honor of Life itself and in honor of all those Christs, Saints, heroes, messengers and prophets who prompt us to be the light we are – the flames and fire of love, compassion, justice and peace. Amen.