Katrina Anniversary

Our blessings and prayers go out today to all those who suffered from Hurricane Katrina two years ago today. We learned much from our experience of working with some of you who evacuated to Baton Rouge, as well as a few who stayed in New Orleans. Sabrina, you especially were an inspiration to us for not letting tragedy and attack get you down, but instead, for lifting many others out of the mire. We are “confident of this: that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil 1:6). David and Charlotte, your testimony of your escape from New Orleans and the many paths from there to where you are now taught us much about the perseverance it takes to step into a new life. May God continue to give you the strength to press forward. Miss Cora, your smile always warmed our heart, and as beautiful as you made your home in Baton Rouge, we know you left your heart in New Orleans and that you long for your true home. You represent thousands. May you and all you represent experience the joy of your heavenly home, even if your earthly home has been washed away. We have not the space to include all of the people who touched our hearts while we were in Louisiana, but please know that we send our prayers and hugs to all of you.

And, for each of us, whether or not we’ve seen the devastation of this hurricane or any of the other recent disasters to impact our world, we’d like to add today a prayer for our earth. Science and prophesy come together with the signs we see today: “the whole creation groans and suffers” (Rom 8:22). Science and prophesy also agree that we, mankind, have done much to bring about the wounds in God’s creation. Christians too often make themselves out to be exempt from responsibility. Sometimes seeing such problems, they choose to blame some scapegoat group like “liberals” to bear the responsibility. But what does God say? “If My people (and in case, we didn’t get it the first time, He says it again) who are called by My name, will 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” (2 Chron. 7:14).

Dear heavenly Father, please forgive us our thirsty craving for the things of the world that are bringing about the destruction of Your Glorious Creation. If we wish to worship You, we must protect Your artistry, the home You created for us. Forgive us when we have not done so and move within our hearts, the hearts of Your people, to return to You and to protect Your creation. Upon our changed hearts, we pray, You will heal our land, Oh Lord. Thank You, Father. Amen.