Prayer for the Southern California Wildfires

Gracious God,
We lift our hearts to you in this time of need,
as fires rage in Southern California,
uprooting homes, lives and creation itself.

Accompany the firefighters, first responders and volunteers.
Give them greater courage and strength, and protect them.
Comfort those who have lost so much —
their homes, livelihoods and loved ones.

May we find ways to serve and support them.
May we trust in your promise of restoration
as we stand with the crucified,
including the displaced, the grieving and the weary.

Send your healing rain upon the scorched land
and your peace unto anxious hearts.
May the ashes become seedbeds of renewal
and the charred earth, a sign of resurrection.

Help us to be witnesses of your compassion,
carrying hope to a wounded world.

Amen.