LOS ANGELES –  If you have seen the news lately, it is impossible to have missed the fact that the Golden State is in trouble!

Wildfires are raging unchecked, bringing catastrophic devastation and loss of life, particularly in the Los Angeles area. As of this writing (January 9, 2025), the fires have ended at least six lives, razed thousands of residences to the ground, and turned over 180,000 citizens into refugees right in their own state. In such a circumstance, it would be easy for anyone to despair. Nevertheless, despite the sorrow and destruction, hope and the light of Christ continue to endure.

In response to the relentless inferno, Christian organizations and congregations have mobilized to provide relief and support. The Salvation Army is actively seeking donations to offer essentials such as meals, first aid, and temporary housing to those affected. Similarly, Convoy of Hope is delivering immediate relief supplies, including water, food, and hygiene items, to the Los Angeles area.

Many local churches are also serving as shelters and resource centers for evacuees. One notable example is St. Monica’s Catholic Church, which has become a gathering place for those fleeing the fires, offering refuge and support to the displaced. Other churches like Grace Community Church of Sun Valley, pastored by John MacArthur, are raising support to help those displaced by this tragedy. As Christians, seeing anyone suffer should make us ache to help where we can. If this describes you, even if you live far away, there are several ways you can help:

Begin with prayer! Take your concerns about this tragedy directly to the throne of God Himself. Offering prayers for the victims, first responders, and relief workers is a powerful way to provide spiritual solidarity during this crisis. Never think your prayers a small thing. Remember that it was Oswald Chambers who said, “Prayer does not equip us for some greater works—prayer is the greater work.” When you take these fires before the Lord in prayer, you are doing something quite powerful.

Next, if the opportunity presents itself, volunteer your services, resources, and time. On-site volunteer opportunities may be limited due to safety concerns, but you can still take part in virtual support roles or assist in organizing local fundraisers to support relief efforts. If you are a professional with a service that can assist victims, consider offering it for free. Others can help pack and move resources. Still others can open their homes to those who have been displaced. Really, the opportunities to volunteer are endless if you get creative. At this desperate time, any amount of help is certain to be appreciated.

With the monetary loss during this disaster sure to be unprecedented, financial donations are going to be greatly needed. If you donate, make sure to do your due diligence and only donate to trustworthy organizations. Sadly, many counterfeit “charity” organizations will often spring up at times like this to take advantage of those who want to provide financial support. Reputable organizations like The Salvation Army and Convoy of Hope are a good place to start. Donating through churches you are familiar with can also be a good way to make sure your finances have the impact you intend them to have.

Finally, raise awareness! Sharing verified information about the situation and ways to help through social media and community networks can increase relief efforts and encourage others to contribute.

In times of such unimaginable loss, the Christian community’s commitment to serving others reflects the teachings of Jesus, emphasizing compassion, support, and unity. By coming together in prayer, action, and generosity, Christians both near and far can play a vital role in the ongoing recovery and healing process for those affected by the California wildfires.

References

Disclaimer: The facts of this article were curated from multiple news platforms cited below. These sources have been used according to the laws governing fair use. Only facts in the public domain – no opinions or commentary from other news outlets – were used in its creation. Any opinions expressed are those of the author.

• “California Congregations Vow to Help Neighbors As Buildings Lost in Fires.” The Roys Report, 8 Jan. 2025, https://julieroys.com/california-churches-vow-help-neighbors-even-buildings-lost-fires/. Accessed 9 Jan. 2025.
• “California Fires Response: Join Convoy and Help Those in Need.” Convoy of Hope, 8 Jan. 2025, https://convoyofhope.org/disaster-services/california-fires-25/. Accessed 9 Jan. 2025.
• Chambers, Oswald. My Utmost for His Highest. Edited by James Reimann, Barbour Publishing, 1992, entry for Oct. 17.
• “How to Help Victims of the Los Angeles Wildfires.” People, 8 Jan. 2025, https://people.com/how-to-help-the-victims-of-the-los-angeles-wildfires-8771351. Accessed 9 Jan. 2025.