Southern California has been one of our favorite places to visit. Sharon and I often spent our vacations there visiting scenic locations and interesting places such as Disneyland, The J. Paul Getty Center, the Getty Villa Museum, Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens, and the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. Five years ago, we had an unforgettable sunset dinner in an oceanside restaurant along the Pacific Coast Highway and strolled on the beach park by the City of Malibu.
A couple months ago, we were horrified to watch the news about the massive wildfires and the destruction it brought to the communities there. At least 29 people died as multiple wildfires, fueled by severe drought conditions and fierce winds, raged across Southern California. The wildfires brought extensive destruction particularly to Pacific Palisades, Eaton, and Altadena. Thousands of houses and buildings burned to the ground. Many families and individuals lost their life savings and more.
A reporter on NBC News on January 12 shared stories about wildfires in California affecting the faith communities. In his report, a pastor was conducting a worship service on the ruined site of their church building destroyed by the fires. He encouraged his congregation to continue trusting the Lord even after their church building burned to the ground. He stated, “Church is not a building, we are!” The members responded by stating that by the grace of God, they will rebuild their lives, their communities, and yes, their church building. What a demonstration of faith in a time of extreme adversity.
Those who survived the disasters are in desperate need of emergency assistance. A month ago, the ECC Care Ministry provided grants to three organizations, one church and two charities, in support of their efforts to assist victims of the fires. Paul encouraged us to do good, to be rich in charitable deeds, and to be generous and willing to share with those who are in need. (1Timothy 6:18)
Unexpected events and surprising adversities happen. These events present many challenges and can overwhelm us. We need to be prepared and entrust our lives and our future to the Lord. For He knows our ways and He cares for us.