What Was
Last year was a horrible fire storm year in the Pacific Northwest. I couldn’t imagine anything left to burn. Besides those who had terrible losses and trauma, we all suffered in some way.
The smoke hung around for a month, we lost the latter part of summer. We couldn’t see clearly, we couldn’t breathe well, and those who had health issues (and most of the rest of us, too) had to stay inside with windows shut. Cabin Fever arrived early.
What Is
This year looked to be a repeat. Several fires lit up our night skies, or made for some fabulous sunsets if we gazed from a distance. Though the fires haven’t been nearly as terrible as last year, some people have endured devastating losses and the rest of us breathed through some smoke days.
I must admit to gratitude that the fires did not gain the momentum they could have. I salute our firefighters all over my state and neighboring states as well. God keep them healthy, alert, and safe as they battle to keep the rest of us safe.
As I contemplated the fires, I did think about other kinds of blazes. Especially those in our hearts—what makes us passionate and ignites a desire to pursue the higher ideals of life?
We face the loss or possible loss of temporal things, even danger of our temporal lives. We are shaken to consider what is beyond. Can we walk through the flames to gain purity of spirit, clarity of vision and direction to walk in our lives?
Fires are cleansing agents in many respects. After they sweep through our lives, we search through the debris to see what is left of the old life. Sometimes there is a remnant, but often we must start over. Where do we go from here?
What Can Be
We are not alone. There is One who never leaves us nor forsakes us regardless of the fires of our lives. Jesus is trustworthy. He has the answers. We just have to ask.
“When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you; for I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior,” Isaiah 43:2-3.
Such a good word, as always, Linda Jo. You redirect my gaze with your potent questions and affirmation of time-tested truth. Thank you, friend.
Hi Laurie: Thank you for your kind words. Affirmation, indeed.
I had to consider such thoughts as we faced a Level 1 evac last year. We did, in fact, begin vacation a day early by packing up and leaving. While the house was still here upon our return, and we were so truly blessed, I did learn that I can leave the stuff behind if I need to. As so many others have said, and the victims of disaster know, having our loved ones, friends and neighbors is all that really counts.
I do remember that you were gone and we all worried about your place then. I’m so grateful that it was spared. Even though you learned that you can do without it. God is good.