Watching the earthquake disaster unfold in Haiti is painful. I have watched with a sense of hopelessness, unable to lend a helping hand. However, I have observed with interest the initial responses to the disaster. First responders make a difference when time is of the essence. While listening to radio news, I was struck by the comments of a disaster management expert who said that within the first 48 hours of a major catastrophe, the help of greatest impact is provided by those who already live there.
On that first evening after the disaster, ABC News relied on comments from the head of World Vision Haiti. Why? Because she lived there, working among the poor in Haiti. While the pundits discussed how long it would take the US Government to respond, the Salvation Army was also putting their resources to work. Many others organizations did the same. Living among the people mattered.
Living among the people mattered to God as well. Matthew records for us the life of Jesus on earth as He made His dwelling among us. The Apostle John tells us,
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. (John 1:14 NIV)
He also knew when He left, that I would need help. Jesus knew that I needed more than a distant God. So He graciously sent the Holy Spirit to dwell with me, comfort me, and guide me.
Difficult times will come and crises will present themselves, but for those who have chosen to follow Jesus, a Heavenly Disaster Team is already assembled and available to us. Will you join me in praising God?
Sharing the journey with you,
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