Extra heat brings real challenges for our communities:

• Rising costs: Families already stretched thin face higher utility bills just to keep cool.
• Health impacts: Extreme heat worsens asthma, heart conditions, and puts elders, children, and outdoor workers at risk.
• Wildfire danger: Longer, more intense fire seasons threaten our neighborhoods.

These aren’t just “weather problems.” They’re justice issues. Low-income and marginalized communities are hit hardest, with fewer resources to adapt and recover.

As people of faith, we are called to love our neighbors and protect creation. That means advocating for policies that reduce emissions, invest in clean energy, and ensure resources reach those most vulnerable.

Together, we can build a Nevada—and a West—where everyone has the chance not just to survive, but to thrive. 

A resource from Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN)

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” – Psalm 46:1

Wildfires are becoming more frequent and intense across Nevada. Preparing now helps our congregations live out our call to love our neighbors and protect the most vulnerable.

1. Protect People

• Make sure your congregation has an up-to-date emergency contact list for members.
• Identify who may need extra help in an evacuation (elders, disabled, unhoused neighbors).
• Share evacuation routes and local shelter information during worship and newsletters.

2. Protect Property

• Clear brush, debris, and flammable material from around church buildings.
• Check fire extinguishers, alarms, and sprinklers—are they working?
• Back up important records and store them in the cloud or off-site.

3. Protect Community

• Create a plan to check in on members and neighbors after a fire.
• Partner with local organizations to provide water, cooling stations, or shelter if needed.
• Designate your church as a communication hub for updates if internet/power goes down.

4. Protect Ministry

• Develop a plan for how worship, food ministries, or mutual aid can continue in an emergency.
• Train leaders in trauma-informed care—wildfires bring not only physical loss but emotional impact.
• Pray and teach about creation care: resilience, climate justice, and loving our neighbors.

Smoke impacts don’t stop at the fire line. Protect lungs and health:

• Keep N95 masks handy
• Look after kids, elders, and those with breathing conditions
• Share extras with neighbors in need

Caring for health = caring for community.

Jesus reminds us that discipleship isn’t always comfortable. Carrying the cross means choosing love over fear, compassion over indifference, and justice over silence.

Every time we speak up for our neighbors, advocate for fair housing, defend creation, or widen the circle of belonging—we are carrying our cross in Nevada today.

This week, let’s ask: Where is God calling me to take up my cross?
Maybe it’s writing to a legislator, showing up for a neighbor, or simply practicing kindness in a hard place.

The cross isn’t about losing life—it’s about discovering abundant life together.