“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’”

Isaiah 52:7

The Sierra Nevada inspires visitors, residents and conservationists throughout the world with spectacular views, flora and fauna, and resources for our bountiful Valley. We find peace and praise in visits there, while discovering more of our creator. In September 2020, the Sierra Nevada experienced the single largest wildfire in its history, burning through an unthinkable 379,895 acres and destroying over 850 structures in four months. It dominated our landscape with flames as high as 1,000 feet, removed entire communities and covered all with ash and smoke across the country. The Creek Fire brought awe and fear to its residents, firefighters and first responders, as the heat and light seared through everything. We will experience the impact and magnitude of the Creek Fire for decades. Yet, however dazzling, and spectacular, like a Valley view of the Sierra after a new rain, these experiences and reflections are eclipsed by the light and glory of their creator. How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, good tidings, that proclaim peace and salvation!

Let us pray for those who have lost their homes and their communities. With all the power of the Creek Fire and the beauty of the Sierra Nevada, the creator brought something more, someone who has called them by name to survive and live. Let us offer our service and prayers in hope for their future in the light and glory of the Lord Jesus Christ. May all firefighters and first responders be thanked and refreshed throughout fire seasons, and our communities come together to serve those impacted throughout the region.

Lord God, we trust in your mercy and grace, that your purposes are just and good. May all people, to the feet of those who bring good news to the mountains, say “Your God reigns!”