It was sad to hear today of the fire at the Whaley Historical home in Flint[1].  This type of tragedy hits close to home when you know people who are involved.  Samantha (Sam) Engle is the Executive Director and an active member of the church where I worship—the Second Presbyterian Church in Saginaw.

Family and friends are all thankful that, while ‘Sam’ was in this historic home when the fire alarm sounded, she was not hurt.  Thanks God!

Now my thoughts turn to the unimaginable work it will take to restore and rebuild this beautiful home.

http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2015/11/whaley_historic_house_museum_o.html

As these restoration efforts begin, I share this prayer from the Book of Common Worship (PCUSA Pastoral Edition).  Please hold the directors and staff from the Whaley House in your thoughts and our prayers.

“God of compassion, you watch our ways, and weave out of terrible happenings wonders of goodness and grace.  Surround those who have been shaken by tragedy and hold them in faith.  Though they are lost in grief, may they find and be comforted;  through Jesus Christ who was dead, but lives and rules this world with you.   Amen.”

[1] http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2015/11/whaley_historic_house_museum_o.html