I have watched the stories of Hurricanes Michael and Florence with great fascination, wonder, and horror. The storms have been beautiful and magnificent. At the same time, they are deadly and devastating. There are many people who are greatly suffering as a result. There are many who have experienced tremendous loss. There is emotional trauma that comes with storms like this. How many people who evacuated Florida don’t know if they have a home to come back to?
It is important for the church to rise up in times like this to offer the hope of Jesus. There are three ways we can contribute to help accomplish this. You can pray, pay, and play.
Not everyone can go and volunteer. Not everyone can donate. But all of us can pray. We pray for those affected, and we pray for those who serve to help.
Most all of us can “pay.” We can donate to help. It might be a small amount. But every little bit helps.
Some of us can “play.” In other words, we can go and serve. And for those who can volunteer there are several organizations through which you can serve.
My tribe is the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod (LCMS). There are several opportunities through this church body for giving and volunteering to help those in need. Your tribe may be different than mine and have its ways of supporting those in need. That’s ok. There are many worthy places to give. It is not as important where we give, but that we do give. I would ask you consider how you might help.
For your convenience, I have provided a few links where you can contribute with your time or money.
- Lutheran Church Charities
- Southeastern District, LCMS – NC & SC areas affected by Florence
- Florida Georgia District, LCMS – Areas affected by Michael
- LCMS Disaster Response
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are Lord of all creation. You command the clouds, the wind, and the rain. We ask that you would spare those who stand in harm’s way. We pray that you would preserve both life and property.
We lift up those who have lost their homes or have sustained damage to their property. We ask that you would help them through the recovery process and calm their minds and hearts. We lift up those who have experienced injury and ask that you would provide healing. For those who have lost loved ones and are filled with grief, console them by your grace and mercy.
We ask that you would protect all first responders who put themselves in harm’s way for the sake of others. Make them efficient to respond to help those most in need.
Finally, we ask that you would lift up your church in this time. Help it to shine your light in the darkness through the storm. Inspire generosity among your people to respond with your love. We ask this all in Jesus name. Amen!
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