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Baptist Message

"Helping Louisiana Baptists Impact the World For Christ"

Two years after the Maui fires: how follow-up care extended far beyond initial relief

By Craig Webb, Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention LAHAINA, Hawaii (Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention) - On Aug. 8, 2025, we mark the second anniversary of the devastating Maui fires that forever changed the landscape of Lahaina and surrounding communities, displacing thousands of families with fewer than 50 homes rebuilt from the nearly 2,000 destroyed. In the midst of this ongoing struggle, what began as an unthinkable tragedy became the backdrop for an extraordinary ministry of hope and healing. Building on the foundation laid by Hawaii Pacific Baptist Disaster Relief in the first months after the fires, the Maui Fire Caring Ministry, led by Pete and Donna Beal, took the extraordinary step of contacting 748 fire survivors over 14 months. This systematic follow-up ministry communicated the love of Christ, shared the Gospel message, distributed Bibles, and provided practical assistance while building lasting relationships that continue today. In the immediate aftermath of the fires, Southern Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers mobilized under the leadership of Hawaii Pacific Baptist Disaster Relief co-directors John and Gay Williams. Send Relief, the Southern Baptist Convention’s compassion ministry arm, played a vital … [Read more...]

Ten biblical habits for every husband and father

By Clint Davis SHREVEPORT, La. (LBM) - Husbands and fathers, learn these ten biblical habits so you can lead and finish well. Own your mornings with God. Rise before the house. Spend time in prayer and Scripture. Move your body and clear your mind. When you start the day with the Lord, you’re not reacting to the world, you’re leading from His strength. “In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” —Psalm 5:3 Stop using “tired” as an excuse. Yes, you’re tired. So is every father. But God has called you to perseverance. Do the work anyway. Your family needs your best, even when you feel your worst. “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” —Galatians 6:9 Pursue your wife like you did before marriage. Don’t let romance fade after the vows. Love her sacrificially and intentionally so she feels cherished and valued. “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” —Ephesians 5:25 Lead your home with steadiness and strength. Your attitude sets the atmosphere. If you walk in angry and rushed, your family feels it. If you walk in calm, steady, … [Read more...]