The past twelve days we've watched hour after hour the devastation and deadly havoc Hurricane Katrina has cast upon the Gulf of Mexico. Most of the time we have felt helpless to make a difference. I sit in the comfort of my cozy and dry apartment in the Northeast and watch with horrow at the scenes splashed on the TV as people wade through feet and feet of water fighting for their lives. I can only imagine the horific nightmare they have faced for I have never trudged through tainted flood waters or clung to a tree for endless hours. Nor, have I had to sleep in a convention center that was supposed to be a haven, even if a short term one, fearing for my life.
Today, I saw one woman who had spent the last ten days in water up to her shoulders with no food. She had drunk the dangerously polluted water to stay alive but still was declared dehydrated when she was rescued.
My daughter's friend, Chris Johnson, in Bozeman, Montana was sent south with with Bridger Fire the beginning of last week to help. She is still waiting word on where he might be and how the rescues are going.
Many years ago I heard a lady named, Hansi, speak at a retreat in the San Bernardino mountains at a place called Forest Home. It was a popular retreat center and once Billy Graham visited. Hansi was from Nazi, Germany and had an amazing story. She shared with us a verse from 2 Chronicles 7:14, "If my people who are called by my name humble themselves and pray, and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." (NASB) I never forgot that verse and tonight, for some reason, it has come to the forefront of my mind.
When I say to myself, what tangible thing am I doing to help, I can be reminded that the power of prayer is never to be underestimated. Still, a few days ago, I called my local chapter of the American Red Cross to volunteer. The operator answered but no one ever came on the line to take my call after that. My friend, who works there, said that they were inundated and overwhelmed and to keep trying. In the meantime, I want to make a batch of muffins to send. That will help me feel like I'm making a difference.
Yes, local and national protocol must be accessed. But, even with the finger pointing and current blame game that is pervasive among our politicians, there is a higher calling for us all. We are called to be Americans and stand on the truths we hold dear. And, maybe...even pray a little more so that God will not only heal our land but heal our hearts too.
Top Blonde taking the day...Jennifer
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