Shaped by tragedy and grace: Wesley’s rescue from fire

February 9,1709 fire at the Rectory in Epworth

What influences does God use to shape us into the people we become?

Our family of origin certainly plays a part, as do experiences with other adults. Events at school and friendships at church sometimes leave a lasting impression. A move to a new community, a national tragedy, and a host of other factors may contribute to our understandings of who we are and what our place is in the world.
 
For the most part, these events subtly form us. Other times a single event can be so profound that we remember it for the rest of our lives.

The fire at John Wesley’s family home when he was just five years old was such an event for him. And likely impacted the way Wesley would lead the movement that was to become The United Methodist Church. 

Read more at this link.

[painting: The Fire at Epworth Rectory, South Yorkshire by Henry Perlee Parker.]