Monday was a heavy news day before the clock struck 10 am. If you grabbed a copy of the Wednesday paper you probably noticed three different stories, each about a Brookhaven man, whose life ended so young. 

Around 6:30 pm a Brookhaven landmark had caught fire and people watched their memories and the once life blood of this town be engulfed in an inferno. 

Tuesday was just as heavy. Two young Lawrence County boys died before they could live out their dreams. It’s a loss that I can not understand because I’m not a parent yet. 

People may grab the newspaper or click stories online and see headlines with bad news and feel overwhelmed. The good news is there, you just might have to search for it. 

Has anyone ever noticed moments in the dark are when the light shines the brightest. 

The good news is this, no one was in the old Stahl-Urban building when it burned. No one was killed and none of the firefighters responding to the blaze were injured. The fire was contained to the abandoned warehouse and woodyard at the pellet mill. It is a miracle considering the gusty winds and homes close by. 

Amidst the chaos of Monday night, I was able to pray for everyone’s safety. I did not know what I was getting into when I first got on scene but I managed to find my department and do the best I could to help as needed. 

It was daunting to see embers flying overhead and small spot fires burning all around, not knowing what all was happening. I had to trust in God’s protection. 

Volunteer firefighters, myself included, had not had a chance to eat dinner before responding to the call. Rex Lumber stepped up and delivered tacos from Taco Bell. It was the best taco I’ve ever had. I thanked God for providing and protecting me when I got home. 

Youth pastors in Lincoln County were able to go to Brookhaven Academy and provide support to students in need Wednesday. It is likely the same support is being offered to other hurting families who lost loved ones over the weekend and Monday morning. 

If you are searching for good news, the Bible is the best place to start. It is there where I’m reminded continuously of how great God’s love for us. 

John 3:16 says “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.“

It just so happens that around the corner from the former Stahl-Urban building Pearlhaven Baptist Church is located at 201 Railroad Street. The church will have Sunday School at 10am and Sunday Worship services at 11 am. If you are looking for good news after this week I recommend stopping by there as well.