How can I help?

I am a news junkie.  I like being informed but sometimes all that information can be overwhelming.  Consider the earthquake in Nepal.

I can't fathom the deaths of almost 4,000 people.

I can't get my mind around the extent of devastation.

I can't grasp the fear of people staying outdoors for fear of their homes collapsing.

I'm not sure that I can sing "This Is My Father's World" today.

So what can I do? How can I help?

I can start by praying.  I am praying for comfort for those who have lost loved ones.  I am praying for peace for those overwhelmed by the extent of their losses.  I am praying for wisdom for those in positions of leadership.  I am praying for courage for rescue workers and medical personnel.  I am praying for compassion and strength for those who will be the presence and body of Christ in the midst of such devastation.

I can't go but I can put "feet" to my prayers by giving.  We can give through our church by designation "earthquake/disaster relief" on our check or on-line giving.  These funds will be forwarded to Baptist World Aid, the emergency relief agency of the Baptist World Alliance.  You can give directly to this organization by going online to www.bwanet.org/give.

They are the hope

Yesterday was a great day of worship and celebration.  The highlight for me was Amber Conti's sharing about her recent school-sponsored mission trip to Guatemala.

Here are the take-aways for me:

• The camp director told the student group that the camp facility was a sanctuary that provided hope to the children of the area- but that, more importantly, "they are the hope."  These children- impoverished and malnourished- in their eyes he sees hope for their community, their country, their church. Children are the gift of hope- not just for the future- but for today!  
• Amber went to give and ended-up being surprised by how much received.  She received the gifts of friendship, acceptance, and spiritual encouragement.  Maybe all of our mission efforts will be better served if we go- across town, across the country, across the world- as willing to receive as we are ready to give.
• Guatemala would not have been possible without opportunities to give and grow through Vacation Bible School, the poverty simulation, or working with Community Servants at Camp Wherry. I am grateful for Chris and for the commitment of our church to provide opportunities for growth and service that plant seeds in the lives of our youth that will bear fruit far into the future.   

It was a good day to be in the house of the Lord.

(If you missed it- you can hear Amber's testimony on the "media" tab at towneview.org)

Easter 2015

Flowers bloom, birds sing,
The very voice of nature rings-
He is risen!