When wildfires sweep through California, devastating homes, ecosystems, and lives, they bring untold pain to those affected. Yet, amidst the ash and smoke, some see these disasters not as a crisis requiring empathy and action but as a stage for their religious or ideological beliefs. Ultra-conservative voices often seize on these tragedies to paint them as divine retribution or a “cleansing” of perceived sin, mainly targeting cities like Los Angeles for their progressive values.

This narrative not only deepens societal divides but distracts from the pressing issue at hand: the urgent need for environmental regulation to mitigate the impact of climate change.

The Danger of Misplaced Blame

The rhetoric of using natural disasters as moral judgment is not new. It’s a scapegoating mechanism that distances people from the real cause—human action (or inaction) on climate. By framing the fires as punishment, the focus shifts away from the actual solutions that could prevent further devastation, such as sustainable land management, wildfire prevention strategies, and global cooperation on environmental reforms.

What’s more, such condemnatory views lack empathy for the people suffering. Families who have lost their homes, firefighters risking their lives, and communities forced to evacuate don’t need to hear that their pain is part of some cosmic reckoning. What they need is support—both emotional and systemic.

A Global Responsibility

Climate change is not a California problem; it’s a global one. Fires of this magnitude are fueled by rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and decades of poor land-use policies. The U.S., as a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, must take responsibility by enforcing environmental regulations that prioritize sustainability. This isn’t about repentance; it’s about accountability and action.

At the same time, empathy must lead the way in our collective response. Natural disasters are a test of humanity—not a stage for judgment. Rebuilding efforts require unity, not division. From supporting affected communities to advocating for climate policies, there’s a role for everyone.

The Need for Empathy Over Ideology

When we reduce a disaster like the California fires to a simplistic narrative of morality, we dehumanize those affected. Instead, we must center compassion. Listening to survivors, understanding the root causes of these fires, and advocating for policies to prevent future tragedies are far more meaningful actions than proclaiming the end of the world, or repentance for our sins.

The fires are not a sign of divine wrath. They’re a reflection of our planet in crisis and the urgent need for change. California doesn’t need condemnation—it needs allies willing to fight for a better, safer future.

For a list of organizations that are helping with relief funds and assistance please see the links below: