When It's Close to Home

Yesterday afternoon I clicked on the news on my computer and saw that they were evacuating a town about 20 miles or so to the east of Rochester. There was a major fire in a food plant there that had the potential of some hazardous chemical problems. That was close enough. But on top of it that town, St. Charles, MN, is the official home of the church my wife pastors (and where I am a member.) In fact, the fire was about two blocks from the apartment office she has used for the past three years.

All of a sudden the news is personal. I have driven by that plant countless times. I have had lunch in a cafe a block away on the main street in the downtown. What's more I know people who live nearby or who work at the plant and firefighters who were sweating to get things under control so it doesn't turn into a disaster.

The company is the second largest employer in the small community. That means that things could turn into other long term problems. The building was completely destroyed and as of this evening the owners don't know if they will be able to rebuild in the town or area. The fire is out, people are back home, but great uncertainty remains.

All news is of course personal to someone. All news has a direct impact on people who just were going about their daily business when something happens. Whether it's the individual stories of people in the wrong place at the wrong time or the ways BIG things affect my life.

I think that is something we need to remember whenever we read any news. People are involved. Real people like you and me. Which is one reason to pray with one eye on the news. People are being impacted and I can pray for God's grace to touch them no matter what.

Which is why I guess I am posting this. I am hoping that you too will pray for the people impacted in St. Charles (or wherever the news is happening by now). Pray for peace and comfort and strength. Give thanks that it wasn't worse. And remember that God is with you- and them.