THANKFUL

Thursday, December 16, 2021,

Lord, the tornados that caused such massive destruction through six states stirred people to action. Your followers—the Church—quickly responded within 24 hours. Christian relief groups sent food trucks, survival supplies, counselors to comfort, and volunteers to assist in the clean-up.  Texas Baptist Men, Samaritan’s Purse, Salvation Army, and numerous Christian agencies throughout the country sent help immediately. Lord, use our love and compassion for the hurting and suffering, our Christlike actions, silence the skeptics, the critics who falsely label us as bigots and haters. All their nonsense goes out the window—if any windows are left in the destruction—as Christ-followers minister comfort and hope to everyone. Believers and non-believers alike lost homes, businesses, schools, and loved ones. Political affiliations, Black, white, vaxxed, un-vaxxed are meaningless. Give Your followers strength and endurance as they demonstrate the selflessness of Galatians 6:2, “Share each other’s burdens and in this way obey the teachings of Christ.” Give them supernatural power to conquer the monumental tasks before them. Show the world that faith in Christ is not just religious sayings and repeating talking points, but faith is active and alive. The Bible is clear on this matter.  James wrote, “Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you tells him, ‘Go in peace, stay warm and well fed,’ but does not provide for his physical needs, what good is that? So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead . . . “ (James 2:15-17). If we don’t meet the physical needs during such a crisis, how can we meet their spiritual needs? The time will come when Your followers can address their spiritual needs.

For we who remain home, may we diligently pray for the rescuers and survivors’ safety and for all to have a life-changing encounter with You, Lord God.  In Your love, Jesus, amen.