Saint Athanasius Lutheran Church

The devastating wildfires in California bring to mind the fragile, unpredictable nature of life. Homes and dreams reduced to ash are heartbreaking reminders that this world isn’t as stable as we often think. In moments like these, some question God, while others wrongly blame the victims. But the truth is, God’s ways are beyond our understanding, and He calls us instead to trust Him. Through the words of Isaiah, God promises, “When you pass through fire, you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” This doesn’t mean we won’t face loss or hardship, but that He will be with us, strengthening us, redeeming us, and giving us peace beyond this world’s uncertainties. Ultimately, our hope isn’t in things we build or protect, but in God’s unshakable promises. Through Baptism, we’re claimed as His own, and through the cross, Jesus endured the fire of God’s wrath so we wouldn’t have to. No matter the destruction around us, in Him, we are secure. Come hell or high water, we are His.