Helping Haiti

So not much is new in Del Rio lately--except that we've been proven very, very wrong; it actually CAN rain here, and hasn't stopped for 4 days. Ugh.
On the contrary, as we are all keenly aware, there is a lot going on in Haiti right now. I'm really encouraged by the fact that, as of this afternoon, corporate America has pledged over $40 million to the relief efforts there. Despite the accusatory political agendas that say our corporations are greedy and self-interested, it's nice to see our nation's biggest businesses stepping up, even in their own (relative) economic pain. If you haven't had time to educate yourself on what's happening there, please do. We will all go on with our lives like normal-- pick up the groceries like normal, wake up in our warm beds every morning, and eat from a pantry full of food. We are virtually unaffected, but these people will be dealing with this for years, emotionally and economically. No one is documenting the names of the estimated 140,000 deceased (in a country the size of Maryland), no one is taking pictures--entire families will just disappear, never to be seen or heard from again. Meanwhile, those looking for them are injured, homeless, and in need of very basic medical care and food.

I know money is tight for everyone right now, but read some of these families' stories on CNN.com, and look at what they have left of their world as they know it, and see if you can't part with $5 or $10. Or, if you tithe, consider giving that 10% to the relief efforts in Haiti or missionaries there. Resources=hope, and every little bit helps, especially in such an economically starving nation. You may not feel wealthy, and you may not be wealthy compared to your neighbor, but compared to these people, you ARE. Be thankful for everything you have--your health, your family, your home.  If you have shopping to do, consider shopping on www.goodshop.com, where up to 30% of your purchase at tons of different popular stores can go towards an organization of your choice (and there are THOUSANDS of them to choose from), and there are occasionally coupons and discounts. The Red Cross and Habitat for Humanity are great places to donate for Haiti relief purposes, as they have established, efficient systems for being good stewards of your money.  Most of all, pray for these people. Matthew 18:19-20 says, "Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.”

In a place where the Christian faith is infantile we can be witness to miracles and resilient faith. You want to experience the power God has given you? Here is your chance. Will you take it?
Please pass this on. Thank you.