Having been at a few accident scenes lately, unfortunately mine, I can tell you that you can treat the body's symptoms, but it is harder to treat the minds. It seems we can deal with blood-the only true sign that you are hurt, ask any little kid, but dealing with anxiety and the depression that we deny afterwards-well it's different. It's like fighting an invisible foe, and our pride doesn't allow any person to fully diagnose it. And although physical wounds heal, it's the emotional ones that leave scars too deep to see.
The first time Theresa rode by herself, she got hit-not her fault. And after some encouragement-no wimpy riders at our house, she was off and fine. When Christopher got hit, it took a few miles to get his confidence back. And I can even say after being hit by the wretched woman making an illegal left turn, I am very wary of intersections. But strangely, getting hit in the rear, I was able to ride again with no problems-go figure. Proof that no one can figure out the mind-at least at a primitive level like mine is.
And as I watch the victims in Haiti, I can see that the needs physically will be met soon, but what about the emotional scars? In two weeks when order has been established, notice I didn't say restored, we will all pat ourselves on the back for a job well done. But what about the victims-who will tend to them once their physical needs are met? What about their souls?
General Mac Arthur, after defeating the Japanese is WWII, when asked what the Japanese people needed, said "send them Bibles and missionaries." They needed to be emotionally and spiritually healed. We didn't, and missed a great opportunity to evangelize. Let's not miss it again. Not to take advantage of a situation, but to make something out a tragedy-to see lives changed eternally-not just for the moment. There are some problems that cannot be corrected with a check-or a check up. They are spiritual, and only God can minister to the situation.
General Mac Arthur, after defeating the Japanese is WWII, when asked what the Japanese people needed, said "send them Bibles and missionaries." They needed to be emotionally and spiritually healed. We didn't, and missed a great opportunity to evangelize. Let's not miss it again. Not to take advantage of a situation, but to make something out a tragedy-to see lives changed eternally-not just for the moment. There are some problems that cannot be corrected with a check-or a check up. They are spiritual, and only God can minister to the situation.
So I ask-no I insist, we continue to be sensitive to God and watch how He makes this situation a victory, and heals the victims. That we continue to pray, ask God what He will have us do. Maybe pray, maybe go, maybe donate. A lot of maybes-but He will demand something of those who call themselves His. Keep your heart open, watch as you receive blessings also.
To put this in perspective, you have a population the size of the San Diego metro area, driven by voodoo, and without hope, or a future. Why not give them the only real thing they need, Jesus-he will add all the other things. And along the way, maybe note the neighbor, or coworker, or person in church who is hurting too. Be open to the spirit, and watch as "as you go, you will be spreading the gospel."
Just an earthquake. Those who follow false teachings, are now quick to say they predicted it. But to those who are called, we know it is a sign of things to come. And we better be ready! For the true mark of a Christian is not predicting, but reacting with an open heart to the tragedy, something no false teacher ever does. Jesus said they will know we are Christians by our love. Don't waste your time telling me how great a lover you are-SHOW ME! Haiti yesterday-overwhelmed by voodoo. Today, in physical despair. Tomorrow-maybe, the richest and fastest growing Christian nation in the world. If He can save me...
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com