August 2018
“In the Midst…”
by Caryn Rehm
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In the midst of disaster, there is JOY. I recently had the God-given opportunity to go on a disaster relief mission trip to Guatemala. Near the city of Escuintla, the volcano, Fuego erupted devastating the villages nearby. This was early June. We entered the area on July 14th and people were still searching for their loved ones.
Even though, there was so much sorrow, God moved and created so much joy.
We saw Him at work in the way He provided us with opportunity to assist a woman, searching for the bodies of her relatives. We saw Him at work in the way He provided for the chaplains who were ministering to their people. We saw His work and we we were able to be vessels of hope, as well, delivering water filtration kits and solar panels to those in need.
Sometimes, there was fear. When our team first decided to go back to the most devastated area; I was hesitant. We were made aware of the dangers of working in the shadow of the recently erupted volcano. The dangers were numerous, but God had His hand on us. In this midst of disaster, God was with us. He was with the people of Guatemala. He comforted the mother witnessing the funeral of her children and parents. He walked along side each one of us.
God will never leave you or forsake you. You only have to give your life over to Him.
Call To Action
Maybe, God is stirring something up within you. Too often we believe the lie, “SOMEBODY ELSE WILL DO SOMETHING.” I know the excuses I’ve made, and the lies from Satan that I have believed. “I don’t have any money” “I’ll be late for work” “That person doesn’t really need my help.” Sometimes, we think “I should do that” but we don’t follow through. We are here to glorify God. I encourage you to live a JOY-full life. (J.esus O.thers Y.ou) Are you living for yourself or living for Christ? If you’re not sure, ask Him. The Lord tell us in Jeremiah 29:13 “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” It’s time to do that. It’s time for us to do something.