“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24-25 NIV
Kids love sparklers but did you know that according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, sparklers account for 10% of all firework injuries? According to a 2001 report in the journal Pediatrics;
“Notably,sparklers, which are mistakenly believed to be safe by many consumers,caused 10% of these fireworks-related injuries. Althoughmost sparkler-related injuries are minor burns and corneal abrasions,sparklers can reach temperatures greater than 1000°F at the tipand can cause serious burns by igniting clothing. One study found that two thirds of injuries from sparklers occurredamong children 5 years and younger.”
Something to think about the next time you are tempted to hand a 1000°F sparkler to a toddler….
Last night we had a wonderful time with friends watching the Indianapolis downtown fireworks. As we supervised our kids with some sparklers, I made an observation. It takes a long time to light the first sparkler with a lighter, but once one sparkler is lit, it is much easier to light another sparkler from the burning one. It was fun to watch the kids enjoy their sparklers, and even nicer to see them share their light when they stopped to light their friend’s sparkler.
As I thought about these things it occurred to me that our Christian walk is a lot like sparklers. The Holy Spirit is the only true source of our “light,” but sometimes it is easier to be ignited by others who are already burning brightly for Christ. The Scriptures tell us that we should “spur one another on towards love and good deeds.”
Are you burning brightly for Christ today? Good! Then look at those around you who need to be rekindled. Has your “sparkler” burned out? Pray! And ask our heavenly Father to fill you with His Spirit and then draw close to your brother or sister who is shining brightly today. Tomorrow your brother or sister may be the one who needs to draw close to you to be rekindled by your fire.
(1) For more fireworks safety information see: http://aappolicy.aappublications.org/cgi/reprint/pediatrics;108/1/190.pdf
Manna and Coffee 
This is so true!! Thank you Len. I want to be a starter for God!!!!!!
Twas indeed a great light show last night in our neighborhood. We are called on to be the light. Let your sparklers shine bright and not under a basket lest nobody can benefit. Build up and do not tear down. Encourage eachother, for if we do not, who will. May God bless you all…
love this analogy Len!! Great object lesson!