A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

Part I - Driving up to church yesterday morning, the kids and I noticed a cloud of smoke in the distance.  It was immediately apparent this cloud was a result of a wildfire.  Seeing this as a teachable moment (you know me!), I explained to the kids about the threat of wildfires and how the Santa Ana winds play a factor in spreading the fires rapidly across the mountains.  We said a prayer that the firefighters would be safe as they attempted to put out the fire, and that anyone living in the path of that fire would also be safe.

Part II - Michael and I awoke last night around 3:30am to the electricity flickering on and off and the sound of high winds (the forecasted Santa Ana winds finally arrived).  Eventful enough. . .so I thought.  

Part III - I turned the news on as the kids were getting ready for school and noticed that same wildfire from yesterday plastered across our tv screen.  It not only was not contained, it was spreading quickly.  Thankfully, I noted that it did not appear to be coming our way, the kids and I said another prayer for safety, and I carted them off to school.  

Part IV - In the midst of my Monday morning errand runs, I walk out into the parking lot and see this. . .

 

which quickly turned into this. . .

 

I rush home to check out the news and learned that the winds accelerated the spread of the fire and shifted the fire in our direction.  The visual of brilliant blue skies assaulted by orange/grey plumes of smoke was surreal.  The smell of smoked quickly filled the air.  It really was something I have never experienced before.  This is what it looked like when I pulled up at home. . .

In the meantime, Michael is at work.  The news reports state the fire is spreading into Porter Ranch and Chatsworth, right where our church is located.  Celeste calls to tell me the church pre-school is being evacuated.  Michael checks in to tell me that he is safe, but needs to remain on the church campus to ensure everyone gets evacuated and everything is in order at church.  A little later he calls to tell me the land surrounding the church is on fire, the fire department is using our church parking lot as a staging area to combat the fire, and they are stuck (literally) at the church as all roads leading to/from are closed.  From his vantage point he can see the fire coming over the mountain heading to the church. . .

the fire approaching the lower church parking lot. . .

the fire approaching the upper church parking lot. . .

the fire surrounding the church property. . .

 and the amazingly braze men and women fighting hard to keep our city safe. . .

The vast majority of Michael's day was spent under a cloud of unforgiving orange/grey smoke.  The winds changed direction and the fire moved away from Simi Valley.  The smoke cleared.  The charred effects of a day of wildfire remain on the land, but our church and our home remain untouched (see pic below).  I was blessed by friends who called to check on us and offer their home as refuge should we need to evacuate.  I was thankful for the word, "Do not fear, for I am with you.  Do not be dismayed for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."  I was blessed by family who called to check on us and solicit the prayers of their church family.  We are so very thankful.

Part V - After a long and very exhausting day for all involved, Carson gave Michael this bit of consolation, "I'm glad nothing happened to you today daddy.  Cause mom would have to remarry and I wouldn't have anyone to play football with."  Interesting train of thought, son.  Goodnight to all.  I am exhausted!