Father, as I looked out my window today and saw blue sky ... I noticed dark smudgy clouds also. Remnants of smoke and debris from fires around us. At first I was offended that I had to breathe the dirty air of other's fires and then it hit me.

"Wake up girl. Pray for the people who have lost their homes and belongings or have been told to leave their homes because of the fires! Be grateful that there are no fires in your own neighborhood."

Right now the air we breathe is full of other people's broken dreams. Our lives continue as usual. Be thankful for each breath you take and pray for those who are discouraged because of the losses they have accrued. Restore them, Father.

Lord bless the men and women behind those dirty, sooty faces ... as they courageously fight the fires and control the burning embers. Bless the families who welcome them home at the end of each shift and pray each time they leave.

Lord, calm the winds that fan the flames and send us rain, In Jesus name. Amen.