"Tragic Devastation"

(Scribbled amidst the smoke of the Orange
County Fires the evening of November 15
and the dawn of November 16, 2008).

Blood red fire
Sulfur yellow flames
I see them on tv
Burning structures,
Apartments, houses,
Homes consumed
By raging flame.

Heat, smoke, ash
Overwhelming
Damage,
Destruction,
Tragic devastation.

Smoke is in the air,
Driving home to pack,
Scared, anxious, alone
Collecting my treasures
Records, pictures, memories.

It's only a precaution,
Yet just to think,
I lose it all?
Up in smoke?
Gone for good?

Of course, one day all of it will burn
When with my Savior, I am united,
But until that day, O God,
Have mercy; protect us.
Watch over those I love.
Wrap them in Your strong embrace.

...

The destruction of the night
Is woefully brought to light,
As flakes of ash,
Flecks of homes,
Rain from the sky
Like a dingy blanket of snow.

The sun is burning with a fiery glow.
Smoke permeates the air all around,
Oppressive grey haze surrounds.

Have mercy, O my God.
Give grace to the hurting,
Peace to the suffering,
Love to the mourning.
Be near them, O God.
Hold them close.