The TV news said the wildfire is threatening the town of Pearblossom, California. I know it well. I was a resident in the high desert of Los Angeles County for more than forty years. My heart is aching for ALL victims of the fires but especially when so close to home. A few weeks ago (or was it a few days ago?) the fire was threatening Lake Hughes, California, and I have (had?) dear, dear friends there.

(I said “had” because I moved and lost contact with friends. Those Christian friends may be sitting at Jesus’ feet, in Heaven, right now. So many folks my age—and younger—have passed away.)