Many of you like myself have watched with sadness the
havoc that Hurricaine Matthew created a few weeks ago on the east coast. The television news and newspapers
have told us the stories of the flooding, lives lost, and homes damaged. For those like myself who live in the
Carolinas, this storm is not a news story far away. No, it is up close and personal. When I hear how the storm affected places like
Kinston, Lumberton, Fair Bluff, Charleston, and the like, I think of people I personally know who live
and love in those areas.
I am reminded of an encounter I had with a person in the
congregation that I had the priviledge to serve. We were talking that day about a gentleman in
that congregation who was facing heart bypass surgery. A matter of fact, I believe it was the first time I had ever
heard of such a surgery. Since heart
bypass surgery was a new procedure and since the man was in critical condition, there was some question of whether he would
even survive the surgery. As we
lamented the health and surgery of our brother in Christ, I lamented how sad it was that Vernon was in
such critical condition. Alvin startled
me when he responded to my comment by saying:
“It is sad, Randy. However, it
is also a wonderful opportunity for us to be the Church in his time of need.”
That comment is surely appropriate as our friends and
neighbors seek to rebuild their lives after Hurricaine Matthew. While it is immensely sad for them, what a
wonderful opportunity for us to be the face and hands of Christ right now in
the midst of this disaster. I encourage
you to pray for those who are recovering from this vicious storm and for the
relief workers now and in the coming months.
Finally, give as you are able to
the church or charity of your choice to help out. Richly we have been given, and now richly let
us give. Have a joy-filled week.- Pastor Randy Wall
Prayer: Lord,
I pray for those who continue to recover from the damaging effects
of the hurricaine. Bless them and use my hands and gifts to make
a difference in their lives right now;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
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