Finding Shelter In The Storm

When Samy Arbid returned to his home in Altadena, California, after evacuating from last month’s Eaton Fire, he expected to find damage, debris, and the lingering effects of the inferno that had scorched more than 14,000 acres. What he did not expect was an uninvited guest: a 525-pound black bear taking refuge beneath his house.

Arbid and his wife had heard about bears in the area, including some that visited regularly and mostly kept to themselves, but they never imagined one would make their home its sanctuary. As they settled back in after returning home, the Arbids began hearing strange noises under the house -- hisses, low growls, and an occasional rustle. Initially, they assumed it was a small animal, possibly an opossum. But curiosity led Arbid to place a camera under the house, and what he discovered left him stunned: "Sure enough, I put a camera under there, and we saw this huge bear," he said.

The bear, affectionately known as "Barry" by the locals, had managed to survive the wildfire by taking shelter under the Arbid's home. Wildlife officials explained that black bears seek safety where they feel most secure, even if it means enduring smoke and fire. “The smoke won’t deter them,” Arbid said. “If they find a place they feel secure, nothing will deter them.”

But Barry’s unexpected presence caused some logistical challenges. The local gas company, SoCalGas, refused to service Arbid’s home until the bear was safely removed. And since they were without service or power, the Arbids needed help ... and quickly.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) stepped in with a team of eight specialists, including wildlife biologist Kevin Howells. Their challenge? Coaxing a half-ton bear out from a tight crawl space without using anesthesia, which was deemed unsafe due to Barry’s size. The solution? A little creativity and a well-seasoned rotisserie chicken.

After nearly 24 hours of strategic planning, plenty of enticing aromas, and a massive meal that included roast chicken, Barry was safely secured in a bear trap and transported to the Angeles National Forest, where he was released with a GPS collar to monitor his well-being.

The Arbids' story is a reminder that even in the aftermath of destruction, God’s presence and protection can be revealed in the most unexpected ways, whether a firm foundation during a storm, a safe haven in a fire, or an unlikely visitor who reminds us of the resilience of God's creation.

As we navigate our own wildfires this week -- metaphorically speaking, of course -- may we find peace in knowing that God will provide refuge ... sometimes in the most surprising places.