Our Response to the Ross Fire

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Ps.46:1)

By now, the smoke filling the air has made us all keenly aware of the dangerous fire spreading to our west. While the path of the Ross Fire is unlikely to near our Messiah families in Mineral Wells or Parker County, the threat of new fires and the shifting winds mean that we should all be vigilant this week. Regularly check for updates from reliable and official entities such as county officials or the National Weather Service. Also, take time to call or text friends and family who may be near the path of the fire. Smoke from wildfire can also pose a threat. Observe air quality alerts and recommendations by the National Weather Service. Checking on elders and others who may have weakened respiratory systems would be helpful—offer to bring meals/supplies so they do not have to venture outdoors or supply them with masks and air filters are just two simple ideas.

Our congregation’s pastoral obligation extends beyond just the members and friends of Messiah.  For that reason, I have been staying up to date on the latest requests for help in Palo Pinto County. I encourage you all to keep your ears to the ground and help our congregation identify ways we can be of service in the coming weeks (and likely months).

The latest messaging from public officials is that now is not the time to collect and drop off supplies like water or food. We are in the initial days of this natural disaster. Our first responders are actively trying to stop the threat to life and property. What they need now most from us is our cooperation with public safety warnings and requests; staying clear of the fire perimeter; remaining weather-aware; and praying for the safety of our emergency service personnel and for comfort to their anxious families.

If you want to help, in the early days of a natural disaster, the best support is usually through monetary donations. Palo Pinto Emergency Services District has put out a request for additional financial support to maintain the staff and machinery needed to fight this fire.  The United Way of Palo Pinto County is another agency you might consider supporting as they respond to an increase in requests for emergency financial assistance.

Alternatively, you can make a contribution to our Disaster Response Fund at Messiah. Any money collected in this fund will be used in the coming weeks to either provide direct assistance to those impacted by the fires or we will pass the funds along to one of our local disaster response partners. To contribute, visit messiahmission.org/give and select "Disaster Response" from the dropdown when making your contribution. 

Once the initial threat is over, there will likely be other ways that you can support in recovery and rebuilding efforts, but now is the time to pray for and clear the way for the professionals fighting the advance of the flames.  

Thank you all in advance for your attentiveness to the needs of your neighbors in these coming days. Remain safe and alert. And remain steadfast in prayer:

Holy God, in you alone we find safety and shelter. Be a sure refuge to all suffering from wildfires. Grant courage, protection, and favorable weather to firefighters and emergency responders; embrace with supportive communities any who may be displaced; comfort any who grieve what is destroyed and give patience to those who are anxious, not knowing when relief will come. Heal your whole creation, that out of flame and ashes new growth will spring forth. We pray through Jesus Christ, our life and our strength. Amen.
(All Creation Sings, p.50)

Peace and Good,
Pr. Trent