“Guys, get on your pants and boots and come outside!” is what we heard the second night we had arrived at Michaels Childrens Village. Jonny ran into the visitor center and with not much explaining and only asking for the guys, I thought it was some sort of initiation for the guys. Then I smelled the fire. The guys went out that night and had their first encounter as fire fighters.
The fire began again the next afternoon when playing with the children. Some of the girls were showing me a blackberry tree as I saw the smoke and heard the crackle of the fire get closer from just across the fence. Even though our preparation for this journey never included how to fight fires, God gave each of us the stamina, wisdom, and strength to aid in any way possible. The guys put their soot-covered fire clothes and shoes from the night before back on and bravely went back into the heat. Each guy found a hose, water tank extinguisher, or tool to smoother the fire.
Us girls began grabbing anything that could carry water. With the help of all the kids we were hauled pots, water bottles, and garbage bins filled with water to the edge of MCV property. We developed a system of filling up big garbage bins right next to the property for the guys to use water from. Painting, playing with kids, and preparing bible stories were all pictures we had in our heads of what life would be like here at MCV. The fire was so hot and quick, spreading ash and smoke everywhere. We never imagined we would be fighting fires, but it really brought us together and pushed us to our limits.
As I helped carry the heaviest pot up the inclined driveway, I thought how us fighting the fire symbolizes the community I hope will develop amongst our team. It was neat to see the body of Christ embodied in us as fire fighters. The men took on the brunt of the fire, just as God has called them to lead, ewhile the women of our team supported the men through continuing to bring water. It was a beautiful picture of everyone finding a place to serve, and encouragement to press on was overflowing.
Although at some points it would have been easy to give up in the middle and let everyone else finish, no one ever did. As it says in 1 Corinthians 3:13 “their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work.” I pray that our work as a team would always edify and glorify the Lord.
The strength of our team and the community that has developed was tested, and the fire revealed that through the Lord we can withstand trial together. I am so glad that we had the opportunity to help and thankful to have played a role in keeping MCV property from danger. May the rest of our journey test our character and the bonds we have developed in community. Lord, continue searching our hearts and bringing to our attention anything that does not glorify your name. And as we go through the fires, let our eyes be fixed on You.
