The hardness of metal makes it difficult to bend into any shape we want. Once forged into the proper shape with fire, however, that same hardness is what makes metal so useful and reliable. In the same way, God uses fire to forge our faith into the specific shape he desires. This week we see how God forges our faith in the fire of his Son’s incarnation. In Christ Jesus, we have a God who dwells among us. Just as he walked the earth in flesh and blood during his time on earth, so he promises to remain among us through his Word and Sacraments. He stands at the door, ready and eager to bring us the best of his gifts. Our desire to gather around his Word and Sacraments is shaped by his desire to be near to us.