Comfort in Sorrow

Yesterday I watched the memorial service for the 19 Granite Mountain Hotshot firefighters who died in the Yarnell fire.  My heart ached for the families left behind…especially the widows, children and the two babies that will be born later this year.  This is a tragedy that leaves people reeling with grief.  It is the biggest loss of life for firefighters in a single incident since September 11, 2001.

 The first speaker at the service was Ron Merrell, teaching pastor at Heights church in Prescott.  My parents attend that church and my mom told me that six of the fallen men attended there.  At a time like this, the only comfort we can grasp is that God is with the families in their sorrow.  Psalm 34:18 says, “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

 Many of the speakers recited scripture.  Some of the verses read were Philippians 1:3-6 and Jeremiah 29:11 (one of my favorites).  Dan Bates, chapter vice president of the United Yavapai Firefighters Association, shared that many of the men had come to know Jesus as their Savior while they were part of the Hotshots.  I was encouraged to hear that the lone survivor of the crew, Brendan McDonough, recently gave his life to Christ when the group had been fighting a wildfire in New Mexico.  I cannot imagine the emotions he is dealing with now, but I sincerely hope and pray that the Lord strengthens him through this trial and suffering.  It was so touching when Bates addressed McDonough and told him that the Lord spared him for a specific purpose.  I thank God that he has strong Christian brothers to support him during this terrible time.

 Since the men died on June 30, I have been praying that God would bring eternal good out of this tragedy.  After watching the service and hearing about these men of faith and their sacrifice, I am confident that God will be faithful to do just that.  I am grateful that the believers who spoke at the service were bold to share their faith in Jesus Christ, especially in these times when it is not always the popular thing to do.  Only our God can use such an event to bring lost souls closer to him and change their eternity.  What a comfort to know that our Creator loves us so much that he can do what we think is  impossible.   “For nothing is impossible with God.” Luke 1:37 (NLT)

 I encourage you to join me in praying for all those affected by this event – the families, friends and fellow firefighters of the Hotshots.  May God strengthen, comfort and enable them to carry on with their lives.

 Melissa