all consuming fire.

In my beautiful oasis called West Texas, devastation has struck. Homes and livestock have been lost, men and women have spent four days straight fighting and risking their lives. Federal assistance and communities from all over have stepped up to help in disaster relief and man power. On Saturday, a huge and terrifying fire consumed over 100,000 acres of ranching land, 20 homes, and who even knows how many animals. It has been a long four days for the communities in the Far West Texas region after fighting to defend their land and lives from the flames which know no limit. The smoke alone caused highways to shut down and damage to individuals' health. Thanks to no rain for seven months and high wind speeds, the fire had easy access into the lives and memories of so many people.

As I began to learn about the travesty that was happening out west, I became obsessed with learning anything I could about the fires. Are all of my friends and family safe? What about their homes? Are the firefighters safe and getting the supplies they need? Where is the fire located now and what direction is it moving in? There were many questions followed by much angst and answered via Facebook and online news pages. I have been truly obsessed with gaining more information and more knowledge on the fires back home. Two nights led to little sleep and my days have been spent on my computer or phone to get the latest news. Whew - it's been rough! And if I have been like this, then I just cannot even imagine what it must be like to actually be THERE, actually see the damage and devastation for myself. It has consumed many of our minds and hearts for the last four days - and will continue to hold residence as the reconstruction of lives and communities goes forth.

Interesting that this fire has been so consuming. And yet, there is still a more alive and intense flame that ticks at the lives of people everwhere. It is the ALL consuming fire who gives us life, rather than taking it away. He gives us peace rather than onsetting fear and anxiety. He creates new life from the destruction of life - just as new life will come from the destruction of these west texas flames.

I have just been struck by such a justaposition (did I use that word right?? Sounded good - but who knows!) of the beauty and evidence of God's presence. Even in disaster, may His glory shine. Father, I pray for the hearts and spirits of those affected by the fires. I pray that you will bring them to You through this disaster. I pray that they will have renewed strength and will soar on wings like eagles. Carry them through Lord, carry them through.