Building a Fire

Building a relationship is like building a fire.

The fire of friendship begins with the kindling;

The first meeting forming the spark, then later,

The wave of recognition across the parking lot,

Answered with a slight nod of acknowledgement.

Next time, it's a smile.

Next time, it's a hello.

Time passes and the flame builds, ready to be feed small sticks.

Eating together and talking of nothing,

Then walks and talks of deeper somethings.

The fire grows.

Every invitation is answered with eager delight,

Each random activity a chance to understand this person better.

Soon the fire is blazing steadily,

Now that friend is near and dear.

Spending time with them is joy,

And whenever they need you, they only need to call,

In a moment all else is put aside to be at their side.

The world can fall away every now and again,

If it means being there for this person.

You've invested time in this fire,

And now you that you feel the close warmth of friendship,

You're willing to work to keep the fire going.

. . . How is it in life,

We so often forget

That loving God is a fire,

A relationship that also requires

Our time and our willingness

To build it?