Warren's Reflection Prepared for Sanctuary Lakes Bushfire Community Event

We have gathered at a time of bushfire tragedy in our state, and we mourn the loss of so many people. We want to remember the families who have lost loved ones, and the many who though they survived still suffer bitter memories. We think of those who have lost everything they owned. We desire relief from pain and a touch of healing peace for these hurting ones. We need fresh hope and vision for the journey of rebuilding anew.

We are encouraged by the community’s response to the very great need around us. We have seen wonderful acts of love and service toward people who were previously strangers. We have witnessed evidence of how neighbours really care for one another. We also want to commend and thank our fire-fighters from the CFA and MFB, and also the police, other emergency workers, medical workers and counsellors for the magnificent job you have done (and continue to do). Such as these have toiled long and hard and need our support.

Yet we still grieve the loss and feel the pain of individuals and families whose lives have been crushed or crumbled by this catastrophe. And we weep with those who weep; we crouch with those forced to their knees in the face of devastation. We remember the family of the fire-fighter from Canberra who gave his life for his mates. “No greater love than this, than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” We pray for those who seek courage to face an uncertain future.

Lamentations 3:19-22 ("The Message" - adapted WH) reads:

"I'll never forget the trouble, the utter lostness,
the taste of ashes …
I remember it all—oh, how well I remember—
the feeling of hitting the bottom.
But there's one other thing I remember,
and remembering, I keep a grip on hope:
God's loyal love could not have run out,
God’s merciful love could not have dried up."

We stand here in Sanctuary Lakes; may we feel sanctuary in this time of mourning:

God, we've known such grief and anger
As we've heard your people cry.
We have asked you, "How much longer?"
We have sadly wondered, "Why?"
In this world of so much suffering,
May we hear your word anew:
"I will never leave you orphaned;
I will not abandon you."

By your grace comes resurrection;
By your love, you cast out fear.
You give strength and sure direction
As we seek to serve you here.
You give comfort to the grieving,
And you bless the ones who mourn.
May we trust in you, believing
Out of chaos, hope is born!

Hope is ours for, God, you love us!
You have claimed us by your grace.
And here and now, you call us
To bring hope to every place.
In each rescue worker's caring,
In each faithful volunteer,
In humanity’s love and sharing,
God, we glimpse your kingdom here.

(Copyright © 2002 by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. All rights reserved - adapted WH)