I'm starting a daily practice of intentional prayer for those beyond my local circle and also beyond the Forum - as I pray for you guys all the time. :) I just feel like the World needs it; my country needs it. I know that I need it. It's what I "can" do right now to help others while I try to figure out what else I can do to help and/or God gives me direction.
So, today, I'm praying, still, for those in CA dealing with the fires. So many lives have been lost and so much effort exerted to help those in harm's way. I saw a news clip of a dog that had been caught up in the fires and he appeared so bewildered. His family was not there, his coat was scorched and dusty with soot, his poor head was hanging so low and his eyes were the sad windows to his poor little soul. My heart broke.
I'm also still praying for folks from Thousand Oaks who are dealing with the loss of life/family/friends along with loss due to the fires. Oh my goodness, may God cover them with extra-special Grace at this time.
I'm also praying for first responders, the military, those in the medical field, and those who work with agencies such as the Red Cross, churches, and government organizations who rush in to protect/assist when crises arise. It's amazing that helpers run into the fire, into the shooting, into the bombing, into the "whatever fray" that beckons them to help the collective "us" on the planet. I am forever grateful and pray so very hard for them and their bravery and safety with heart-felt thanksgiving. And, for those who come in during/after the terror and/or catastrophe to help others get through the next day and into the next week in getting their lives back on track. My church has a disaster team that goes into disaster areas to help out with meals, laundry, prayer, encouragement, clothing, etc...
May God bless, protect and cover them all.