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Doing Good after the Flood |
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On Saturday one pair of workers from our congregation were able to go five minutes from our building and talk and pray with a woman in Pennington Bend. Her four children are now scattered among friends. She and her husband have been in the Fiddler’s Inn across the parking from the Stardust for the last 24 days. Their house is not yet thoroughly dehumidified and the mold-killing spray has not yet been applied. The FEMA money has come in, but the $20,000 probably will only pay for the materials needed. There is still construction to be done and furniture and appliances to be bought (but at this time we are not able to receive donations of furniture, etc at this time). We have already begun serious efforts to help this family, but there are many more. Of course, we cannot get to everyone. Thankfully, there are many other groups at work that are also offering assistance. We are praying about efforts that may help people on a large scale. However, as was shared at our service on May 9, this is a unique time for God’s people to shine. The words of Galatians 6 are appropriate:
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” (vv9-10) Flood recovery is difficult. People get tired. Those with losses get tired. Those who are helping get tired. We will need to learn to work, give and rest, and help those recovering, get rest. We especially will need the words of Isaiah 40:
29He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. 30Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 31but those who hope in the Lordwill renew their strength.They will soar on wings like eagles;they will run and not grow weary,they will walk and not be faint. (vv29-31) Let’s continue to pray for our brothers and sisters and our neighbors whose lives have been turned upside down. When people see their needs, they are often far more receptive to God. Let’s pray our light will shine and that doors for the good news of Jesus will be opened. |
August 22, 2010