God, save us from apocalyptic thoughts!
(The Pasadena Jewish temple caught on fire and burnt to the ground in this last fire. The images and information flowing through the media reveal one of the most catastrophic events of modern times)
January 8, 2025
Dear friend:
This poem spoke to me today as I think of the many who have lost their homes, as well as firefighters exposing their lives to save others.
Many posted on social media, “Pray for Los Angeles.” This sounds so empty and helpless since prayer will not undo the damage caused by the fire, slow climate change in the near future, or move God into action. Prayer is for us as we journey through the “nights of the soul.” Prayer is to remind us God is with us now, today, as God has always been with humanity.
God helps us to differentiate between flames of destruction
and the fire we long to ignite in our inner consciousness now.
Amen.
Our God and God of our fathers and mothers,
As the flames burn, wreaking havoc upon our forests, our homes,
our firefighters, our sense of security,
We turn to You for comfort and support.
Help us to differentiate between flames of destruction
and light that shows us Your way.
We know that flames can destroy.
Keep us far from apocalyptic thoughts,
for we know that You ask us to care for this world,
an awesome responsibility.
We also know that we can seek You in the flames.
In a burning bush, You spoke to Moses, sending him to lead your people out of slavery,
In a pillar of fire, You led your people through the wilderness to the Promised Land,
Be with us now, these smoke and fire-filled days.
Draw us close to those harmed by these flames, hearing their cries, responding to their needs.
Lead us to support those who fight the fires, care for the displaced, and bring healing to those suffering.
Though our attention spans seem so short, may we be slow to forget those in danger.
— adapted from a prayer by Rabbi Paul Kipnes (Rabbi Kipnes is the spiritual leader of “Congregation Or Ami” in Calabasas, California.