Fire Update: (Written 7/28/18) Over 3k personnel have been assigned to battle the raging beast known as the Carr Fire. 330 fire engines are being used and another 150 are on the way throughout California. This nasty beast has a 100-mile perimeter! 
Also, the Global SuperTanker, the world’s largest firefighting airplane, is being utilized in Redding to help battle the Carr Fire. Once able to hold 600 passengers, the retired Boeing
747 aircraft has been converted into one of California’s most essential firefighting tools.
There are Blackhawk helicopters and other aircraft battling this formidable enemy. The city is smoldering as if embattled in war. Thousands have been displaced from their homes, my family included. Sadly, many have heard the heart-wrenching news of fire consuming their homes & memories, others still hold onto hope they will have a home to return to, my family included.
There is something else, however. You can see it in the eyes of people you meet. A unifying spirit. Fear, yes but also resiliency. And Kindness. Strangers quickly engage in conversation, sharing a common bond forged in suffering.
This photo was taken by my daughter from our driveway as she was waiting to leave during the evacuation 7/26/18.
This battle is far from over. Already considered the worst fire in the history of Shasta County; God only knows where this will go, or where it will end.
The world will once again come together. Love, compassion and kindness will help this community, and others like it, to emerge stronger. We will grieve many losses but there is hope.
Heaven also is engaging this conflict infusing multitudes with Hope, and a different kind of Fire; one that inspires and ignites a Movement.
God Himself is the One Who “provides for those who grieve… to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.” (Isa61:3) 
