Yesterday I went to a meeting that's subject was future relief work in Haiti. There will be need for relief work, rebuilding and restoration for years to come. It's overwhelming to even think about. Even though it will be a few weeks before regular people can get in to do any kind of work there are things that those regular people must do to prepare to go in. Getting training to go will be a priority for anyone planning to go to Haiti over the next year.
We talked about the word compassion a couple of weeks ago in Bible study. Compassion means that one sees a need and is compelled to act. It's not just feeling sad or sorry but having a desire to do something as a result.
The news out of Haiti is mostly heartbreaking. Yes, there has been news the last couple of days that a couple of people have been pulled out of the rubble alive more than 2 weeks after the initial earthquake. Samaritan's Purse reported on Twitter today that a baby was born - a new life begun. In the midst of the good news is an overwhelming amount of bad, awful, devastating news.
For now, what can we do? We can give -- make sure you are giving to a reputable organization like Samaritan's Purse or Baptist Global Relief or North American Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention. These organizations are prepared and able to provide much needed physical and material help as well as the Good News of Jesus Christ. The next thing to do is pray. Actually, praying is the first thing we should be doing. I hope you are praying. Finally, if you think you might possibly want to go in the future then start preparing now. Look around for opportunities for disaster relief training. Make sure your passport is up to date. Check out the CDC website for required immunizations.
I'm sure I'll have more to write on this subject in the future -- I, for one, hope for the opportunity to go to Haiti!
Serving the King,
Jeanette
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