I know I’m not the only one who is overwhelmed by all the stories and videos of Hurricane Helene. Multiple times over the past several days my attention has been absorbed with reel after reel of the devastation. Our hearts ache for our neighbors to the west, many of us with personal stories from friends or family in the affected region. It’s just so hard to get our minds around such a catastrophic event.
One headline has described Helene as a disaster of “Biblical proportions”. This label is often used when a natural disaster creates such devastation that it is compared to the floods referenced in the Old Testament. I’m unsure what markers are required for such a label, but I also believe it’s safe to assume that those who experienced Helene’s wrath would agree such a title is warranted.
It pains me that something so tragic would be associated in any way with God’s Word. But, perhaps “Biblical proportions” is a perfect way to look at this…but, with a twist.
When we turn the pages from the Old Testament to the New, we see the transformation ushered in by the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. As “the church” was forming, it was described as an embodiment of unity. In Acts 2 the early followers were devoted to steadfast community, prayer, generosity, and shared meals.
So, yes, perhaps referring to Helene as a disaster of “Biblical proportions” is quite fitting as it turned our broken hearts into hearts broken open for our hurting neighbors. Story after story of people moved with compassion – generously donating funds and supplies, organizing provisions, showing up with shovels, hugs, and prayers. Pain and suffering is the greatest equalizer – when we are stripped to our barest humanity, nothing else matters more than just showing up and making a difference in any way that we can.
Father God, We love You. We admit that devastation such as Helene can flood our minds with doubts and questions of Your presence and goodness. Meet us in our confusion. Remind us You never change and You continue to work all things for good. Convict us to do Your will – to show up generously, to offer Your peace and comfort to those who are hurting around us. When faith is fragile, give us eyes to see. Give us the courage to move and act. In Your Son’s name we pray, Amen.
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