When Disaster Strikes...

“If disaster comes upon us, the sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famine, we will stand before this house, and before you, for your name is in this house, and cry to you in our distress, and you will hear and save.” ~ 2 Chronicles 20:9 

Yesterday was a tragic day – especially for the people of Moore, Oklahoma.  The death toll is at 51 and climbing, over 145 injured are in the hospital and over 101 have been saved from the wreckage as of the next morning.  Where do we turn during such times of tragedy?  Where do we start to help those affected?  How can we be of most help to those suffering at this time? 

In 2 Chronicles 20:9, we are told to turn to God, for He will hear us and save.  With so much devastation, so many injuries, so many trapped in wreckage and so much loss of life, only God is big enough to overcome all that is set before us.  Lift everyone affected by this tragedy up in prayer before God.  Prayer works miracles by interceding before our mighty God for those in need.  There are many other ways to help as well, but the first and most important response is prayer.  

If you are one that has the ability and feel inclined to help in other ways, you can join a disaster team to help clear up the wreckage and rebuild the community in the days and weeks ahead.  If you have the resources, donate whatever you can to help alleviate the physical and financial losses of the victims.  Yet, whatever you choose to do, continue to pray as well.  God will provide the strength for those He sends to help his children in need.  We must also pray that those affected will feel God’s loving arms around them in the midst of their grief – giving them the strength they need to carry on in the days and weeks ahead to rebuild their lives from such destruction and loss.  How will you help others when disaster strikes?

Prayer

Lord,  We cry out to You on behalf of all those affected by natural disasters.  We pray for those who have lost so much in just a moment of time – homes, places of employment, loved ones that have been injured or killed in the wake of this tragedy.  We pray that You place Your loving arms around each and every one of them, as well as the first responders and physicians, giving them the strength and peace they need to carry on in the days and weeks ahead.  Help them receive what they need from others from unaffected areas to help rebuild their lives once again and give them hope for a brighter future ahead as well as the awareness that You are with them, even in the midst of this disaster.  Amen.

~ Wendy Miller