Wrapped
in blankets in my grandparents’ pickup, I watched as fire consumed our home. My
father says I slept soundly as he carried my brother and me and our puppies out
to safety. When I woke up and saw the huge blaze, I was already safe. I was too
curious and too young to be scared.
I
remember several things from that night. Even inside the truck, the heat was
intense and the fire was mesmerizing. I remember too the fear on the faces of
everyone else, checking and re-checking to see if loved ones were safe. Later I
learned that in the chaos my father raced into the fire to look for my
grandfather, which prompted my grandfather (who was not inside the
house) to race in to get my father. Their courage affected all who saw it that night.
I’m
reminded of that fire every time I read the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and
Abed-Nego. When challenged with the decree to bow to the king or face execution
(Dan. 3:10-12), these three bravely faced the fire for the One they loved
(vv.16-18). And the Lord stood with them in the flames (v.25).
When
life’s “flames” test us, may those who observe our choices recognize our love
for each other and for our God.
Trials
are the soil in which faith grows. (RBC)
