This week our Fire Department pulled together--as a team, to battle the dragon and save a life. Many of you locals were there and thank you for the hard work and dedication you put into it. For the rest of you, let me explain.I woke up to tones of a house fire early Monday morning. I arrived at the house just after the first engine arrived. I ran up to the scene to get "packed up." I helped pull a crosslay, handed the nozzle to my buddy who was already to go. I flaked the line out and went back to the truck to finish getting a box light and halligan. The line was charged. I shut the door on the engine and I heard someone yelling for help. I quickly looked to find a body lying outside. I flashed back to a previous fatal fire a few months ago. I ran over to the patient and recognized him--it was Ken Howe, my Chief. It was hard to think straight. Another firefighter was with him and we attended to him. It was hard to see someone I work with everyday down like that; however, we got him packaged and off to the ambulance. Being a Chaplain, I should know what to pray for at this time right? Think again. All I could say was "come on Jesus, lets go."
The fire was pushing out the basement and first floor windows by now. Crews worked hard to knock it down from the outside...it was too hot to go in. I checked myself out of service. My mind wasn't focused on fighting the fire, it was on the life of my Chief. Two other firefighters and I prayed together. I asked our Command in Chief to give us peace and save the life of our leader.
I cleared the scene to go to the hospital--as any Chaplain would wish. I met the family there. I saw the my Chief fly away in AirCare--and emergency transport helicopter. I offered up a prayer and laid my burdens down.
Today the Chief is alive. This was accomplished by excellent teamwork of all those involved. Since this tragedy has hit our department, firefighters and friends from across the country have banned together to secure his old home, get him a new house, and prepare for his return. This is what unity is all about. Christ spoke of unity being a primary focus among believers and people alike. I hate the circumstances that have brought out this new found unity but I rejoice in its power and impact. Let's do all we can in our organizations, families, relationships, and faith to encourage a unified front.
