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Checking in: a barren and dry land
Dear Friends,
I was at a local shop yesterday, and asked the owner how the summer had been for him. He said, “Smoky; dry; hot.” He looked weary.
One thing I’ve always loved about Summit County is residents' constant awareness of and gratitude for all that’s precious in this place. No two days are quite alike, and no morning dawns exactly like the one before on the Tenmile. Still, these past weeks have been stressful. We’re grateful, but we also have room to be worried, and watchful. If you haven't yet read Frances' most recent Living Parable, by all means do.
It was great to hear Matt Benedict speak a few weeks ago about fire preparedness - we want to do what we can to be reasonably organized for emergencies. As somebody whose primary objective is to care for all of you, though, I also want to name the importance of finding a way to abide in relative peace in the midst of alerts, alarmism, and fluctuating air quality.
The truth, of course, is that wherever we go, God goes with us:
Where can I go then from your Spirit?
where can I flee from your presence?
If I climb up to heaven, you are there;
if I make the grave my bed, you are there also. . .
If I say, “Surely the darkness will cover me,
and the light around me turn to night,”
Darkness is not dark to you;
the night is as bright as the day;
darkness and light to you are both alike.
Psalm 139
If you could use support this summer - spiritual or practical - or would benefit from having an evacuation “buddy” or team to contact should the need arise, please let me know. I myself feel better knowing there are a few people who will have me on their radar in the event that we need to take action.
As ever, I encourage you to pray for rain, for our brave firefighters, and for all the people affected by Colorado’s current fires.
Under that heading, I also want to let you know that, for the moment, our siblings at St. George’s in Leadville are okay. Rev. Melissa says the most important thing we could do to support them is to come visit, eat, and shop in town. Their businesses are taking a major hit in the shadow of the Willow Fire.
I love you, and God loves you. Let me know where you are and what you need.
Bless you,
Beth+
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