Watching and Praying
Editor’s Note: Pastor Jackson Lau lives in the San Gabriel Valley near the current Bobcat Fire. This post was written as a reflection based on what he is facing due to the wildfires close by.
Praise the Lord! God is good! And all the time, God is good, including these unprecedented times of fires and a pandemic. My wife, Lily, and I appreciate so very much the many people who have lovingly communicated and contacted us, directly and indirectly. Your expressions of care and concern touches and comforts us, in the midst of things outside of our control. But God is still in control and on His throne!
Warning of Evacuation
On Saturday, Lily and her mom voluntarily evacuated while I stayed home. On Sunday morning, after I returned from our church’s outdoor worship, mandatory evacuation was declared for areas north and across the street from our home. However, on the south side of our street, the firemen said we were only on a warning of evacuation. Therefore, I have and am staying, watching, and praying with you all.
Ready to Evacuate
As I am currently writing this on Monday night, we just received an alert of a second night of mandatory evacuation for those living across the street, where police cars have been posted day and night on every block, giving a greater sense of safety concerns and early alerts. The Bobcat fire is pretty close and only getting closer, impacting Chantry Flats and Wilderness Park, which are also nearby. We are two short blocks from the foothills and outer edge of Angeles National Forest. I have already packed the car and I am ready to evacuate, if needed. Please join with me in "watching and praying."
Praying Earnestly
Things for us are good so far, even with the previous terrible air quality improving to be just bad and smoky. I am thankful I saw the sunlight through the smoke for the first time in 2-3 days! As you’re reading this, join me in praying earnestly, similar to Elijah, for rain for our local fires as well as the entire West Coast! "The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much” (James 5:16). For God is good… all the time!
With Peace and Joy,
Jackson and Lily
