What does it mean for us to be refined?
The role of the Holy Spirit in our lives is incredibly dynamic. The Spirit prepares the way of faith for us to receive the living Word of God and to be changed by it. Luther suggests that in Galations we learn how the Spirit leads us into a battle against all that is in opposition to God within our own persons, and we experience change within our minds, bodies, hearts and wills as the Spirit brings us to new life. This work isn’t to make us more right with God, nor to earn our salvation; we are justified by the grace of Christ Jesus once and for all, and by grace we walk inspired by the Spirit.
God’s Spirit prepares us to live this life, working in us until our final day. That may feel like a refinement of sorts, considering we are always both saint and sinner. The Spirit helps us see what can be refined in our relationships, in our community living, and how we can help prepare the way of life for our neighbours through love.
We are not left on our own. The Refiner’s Fire’s daily work is a gift. Thankfully, there is always more to come.
Gracious Spirit, may your continual work within us inspire us to live life anew. Amen. —