Praise God In The Storm
These trials are only to test your faith, to show that it is strong and pure. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold -- and your faith is far more precious to God than mere gold. So if your faith remains strong after being tried by fiery trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. -- 1 Peter 1:7
A few weeks ago, parts of Alabama and the Deep South were blasted by devastating tornadoes. Hundreds died. Many were left homeless, with physical and emotional scars that will last a lifetime. A test of faith.
A young woman and her two small children emerged from a basement, unhurt. Their home was destroyed. Literally. Nothing left but a few photos and a smattering of clothes buried underneath the rubble. They looked around their neighborhood. It was wiped out.
The woman’s father owned the home. People questioned how he was doing as he and others worked to clear away debris. He shook his head. Funny how little a house means, he said, when you daughter and grandchildren emerge unhurt. Kind of puts things in perspective.
His daughter marveled at the outstretched hands. She noted the volunteers who came by regularly to make sure they had food and water, tools for the cleanup, toiletries and other necessities. Compassion and kindness in the midst of tragedy.
Churches reached out, even when their buildings were gone. People learned that the church isn’t a place but rather the people who occupy that space. A few more folks found time to attend worship services. Out in the parking lot, standing or sitting in borrowed lawn chairs, paying attention to the words of the sermon and the songs. Praise for a God who remains faithful in the presence of the storm.
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