God is Our Refuge

Palisades, Eaton, Sunset, and the list goes on.  These names are emblazoned in our minds.  Right now, we're in the midst of a literal firestorm that we've never seen before.  While wildfires are not new to us in Southern California, never have they affected so many people, homes, and communities at the same time.  The loss of life and property, which continues as I write this, has been catastrophic; and the effect on people's lives devastating.  We evacuated our home Tuesday night.  Earlier that evening, we watched the news as the fires broke out.  Then, as we realized this might actually affect us, and the smell of smoke got stronger in our house, we packed up some clothes and personal items, and left.  I took this photo from our house toward Eaton Canyon before we left.  We know there are a couple of other church families that had to evacuate as well.

It has been shocking to watch the news and see the fires spreading across the region.  We're thankful to hear that our friends and neighbors are safe, but it has been heart-wrenching to hear that some have lost their homes.  At times like this, we don't know exactly what to think, say or do.  But we are driven to pray.  We take our struggles, sadness, and confusion to the Lord.  Psalm 46:1 says, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."  A "refuge" is a place you go to hide.  It's where you go for safety and protection.  When we decide to place our trust in God, we go to Him, instead of other things, in times of trouble and distress.  As Psalm 18:2 says, He is our rock, our fortress, and our deliverer.  Where else should we turn? 

To be sure, this is a tragedy of epic proportions and it's still unfolding.  What can we say?  All we know is that God is our refuge and strength.  In faith, may we go to Him with our thoughts, our concerns, and our cries.  Let us pray for all that have been affected, for His safety and protection, and for His help and guidance.

Pastor Darren