By Steve Horn
About this time last week is when we began to know that this week was going to be one like we have never seen. Though my personal home was spared, we are hurting for so many friends scattered across South Louisiana who have suffered devastating loss. We have had a variety of emotions for sure. Now, a week later, I want to share some random reflections.
1. We need each other. We knew this already, but we seem to forget this too often. Seeing people help each other from every walk of life has been rewarding even in the midst of such tragedy.
2. We need God. Without a spiritual compass that points to an empty cross, an empty tomb, and an awaiting eternal glory that far exceeds any temporary affliction, I don’t know how you make it through times like this.
3. There was a lot of hurt going on in the world before last Friday and that has not changed. And, for some, more bad things have happened this week. In the midst of all of the disaster relief, let us not forget that people still have cancer, still are having heart attacks, some have died this week totally unrelated to the flood, people are still unemployed, and others have suffered many other overwhelming circumstances of life. Let us not forget all of these hurting people. In fact, let our own hurts cause us to be more sensitive to their hurts.
4. I am overwhelmed by the generosity of friends scattered across the nation. I can’t tell you how many friends have called and texted to say, “What do you need?” Better yet, I have had friends call and say, “Here’s what I am doing.”
5. I am overwhelmed by the generosity of people who don’t even know me or our church, but are sending help our way.
6. There are some horrible stories, but there are some good stories. No, check that, there are some GOD stories!
All of this and more is why I posted on my facebook page earlier this week: “My heart is heavy, but my heart is happy!”
Weeping may spend the night, but there is joy in the morning. (Psalm 30:5b HCSB)
Horn is pastor of First Baptist Church in Lafayette and is a former Louisiana Baptist Convention president. This blog was originally published in Horn’s blog.
