Running from the Fire – God’s Ultimate Protection

A little after noon today, I received a phone call that there was a fire at my sitter’s house. I clearly remember the neighbor telling me that the kids were safe and that everything was alright. I couldn’t think clearly and went back to work in a bit of a daze. I don’t know why it took about 20 minutes to actually click in that my daughter was safe from a fire but when it did, I realized that I had to get home to her. 

Of course, the worst thoughts come barreling through my head when you only have partial information. However, nothing could have really prepared me for what I saw when I arrived at the house. 

It was gone. Well most of it. There were 4 jumbo rigs and more firemen than I had ever seen. I first talked to some of the neighbors and then went in to check on Sara. I just wanted to hug her and tell her how grateful I was that she protected my child. 

Once I had done that, I headed down to Lu. When she saw me, she just cuddled up and hugged me for a long time. She told me about the fire and then just sat there quietly. 

I know for certain that God’s ultimate protection was over all of the children and Sara today. Normally she has them all in the house at 11:30 to wash up and get ready for lunch but because it was such a beautiful day, she decided to let them stay outside an extra 15 minutes. 

The kids were already outside the house when the fire started and after she heard a small explosion and saw the smoke, she rushed them to a neighbors house. A second explosion engulfed the house in flames as they ran. My daughter keeps telling me about the “little boom” and the “big boom.” They were protected from most of the fire but the aftermath has been very difficult.

I made the decision to let Lu see the house and as we stood there, one of the firemen came over and talked to her. He told her that it was all over and he was thankful that she was safe. We also went to go get snacks and food for everyone, which made us both feel like we were helping.

Then late tonight, Lu asked if we could go back over there so she could see Sara and hug her. So we jumped in the van and headed back. She got her hug and to see that everyone was still safe but I suspect she it will take time for her to adjust to experience of running from the fire. 

I am so very very thankful for the God’s protection and provision in this situation. It has been very overwhelming for us but not nearly has devastating as it has been for their family. 

When I finally got a chance to sit down today, I just cried and cried. Cried for my friends catastrophic loss and cried in praise that my little girl is perfectly fine. Now I just have to reign in my own fears and give them to God.

Please pray for their family. They have two children, 5 and 8. Their lives are forever changed by this experience. Pray for restoration of both their home and their hearts.