SHARON ROCKWELL | CONTRIBUTOR
This year, more than one illness spread through our extended family, hampering most of our plans for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. It seemed like we missed so much of the fun we normally associate with Christmas time that I left our tree up a little longer than usual in an effort to hang on to the season. To extend some of the festivities, I even went with a friend to see the Rose Parade floats that were lined up for viewing on Jan 2nd. I usually just watch the parade on TV, but this year I felt the need to make the drive to Pasadena and smell the roses for myself.
Who could imagine that less than a week later, I would be watching some of that same area go up in smoke as wildfires spread across southern California. Our local news is full of stories about individuals who lost their homes and businesses. Many left their homes with nothing but the clothes they were wearing. Yet as I have listened to the live interviews of people who escaped and who are waiting to hear if their house is still standing, or of those who have lost it all, one theme surfaced. They shared the perspective that they had lost only things. They had their lives, their loved ones and their faith. The subject of prayer came up often as newscasters casually ended their reports with the phrase “our thoughts and prayers are with you.” One commentator reporting the devastation as the TV cameras panned block after block of scorched homes even stated in a resigned tone, “All we can do is pray.”
All we can do is pray? All we can do is pray! Prayer unlocks the floodgates of heaven and releases the power of God. Just hearing a reporter bring up the idea that in our times of trouble, we need to turn to God, is God-glorifying, and moves our minds toward Him. Petitioning God for intersession in times of trouble reminds us that God is the source of all good and comfort, and that we are totally dependent on Him for everything. The situation is devastating, but there are signs of grace every hour. While the strong winds continue today, planes are now carrying water to douse the flames. Thank you, Father! A local restaurant owner has offered food for anyone who needs it. Thank you, Father! A well-known actor humbly shared his faith on television in the aftermath of losing every material thing. Thank you, Father!
James 4:2 reminds us that “You do not have because you do not ask.” And so we share these petitions.
Lord, comfort the families who have been affected by this fire. Let them be reminded that they have lost only things, even precious things, but nothing as precious as their gift of life from You and the love You have for them. Mercifully deliver them from their distress.
Lord, protect the fire fighters and responders who save and preserve life in the course of their duties, and at the risk of their own lives. Give them courage in the face of disaster and strength to do the tasks at hand. They are weary.
Lord, we mourn the loss of life that has occurred with these fires. We grieve for the families of the loved ones who remain. Be near them Lord, and increase their faith that even in mourning, they remember that all their ways are in Your hand. Give them peace.
Lord, you command the wind and the rain. We grieve over the destruction in our cities by the winds and the fire. Hold back the winds and preserve our homes, places of worship, schools and businesses. The loss is great. But your grace is greater. Heal our land.
Lord, direct those in our local government who preside over us. Give them wisdom in their decision making and handling of their responsibilities. Weed out corruption and self-centeredness. Let our leadership acknowledge truth, and act in the best public interest as we face the monumental task of rebuilding.
Lord as we go through this dark time, help us to point our neighbors to You. Let our rebuilding efforts include sharing the gospel so that more people will come to know that their only hope is in You.
Psalm 46:1-2 offers this promise, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth give way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea.” Amen.
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

Sharon Rockwell
Sharon retired from her career first as a chemist and then as a regulatory affairs consultant to the medical device industry. She has served on the women’s ministry team at Grace Presbyterian Church in her hometown of Yorba Linda, California, and has worked as the west coast regional advisor for the PCA. She and her husband have 4 adult children, and 9 young grandchildren (current score girls 4, boys 5). In her spare time Sharon enjoys cooking, traveling, bird watching and raising orchids.