"And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell." (Matt. 10:28)

For over 20 years a fire has been burning deep within the earth at Centralia, a small community of 1,200 residents in the heart of Pennsylvania's coal fields. Fifteen different federal, state, and local agencies have spent more than $3.5 million to extinguish the fire without success. Persons can touch the earth and feel the heat. Deep holes and crevices vent hot, smoky air and noxious gases. One citizen said: "Standing by a hole, you can hear the fires roaring. It's an eerie sound, like the beating of a thousand wings." Government officials have indicated that they are no longer willing to attempt to put out the fire; it is a futile task. As flames continue to burn without restraint, townspeople plead for someone to save their community.

Jesus solemnly warned of a far greater, eternal fire in which all the wicked will be cast. Let us avoid it at all costs.