HAITI ON MY MIND.
It’s midnight, and I’m still up, restless in my spirit… can’t get the images of hurting people out of my mind. It’s more than an earthquake disaster to me… many of these people and pastors are personal friends and I want to be doing more to help. At this time I have definite plane reservations and ground transportation for the week of January 26th, but I’ve been trying to get out sooner on any available transport. I know that just my presence will bring hope and encouragement to our leaders. Our first priorities will be to assess needs that will be overlooked by the massive humanitarian aid programs, and to establish shipping and ground distribution channels for bringing in 40 foot containers. We’re in this for the long haul. The media will soon move on to other things and the initial outcry for help will fade away. That’s when ministries like ours, who have a call of God and have been working in Haiti for years, will get a second wind and continue the massive rebuilding program. I’m reminded of our help to Honduras, 12 years ago, after Hurricane Mitch ravaged the country. We had the opportunity to link up with our local Christian radio station and Publix to gather tons of food, toiletries and medical supplies. We loaded up 14 containers in the front yard of Christian Retreat and shipped them directly to the churches throughout Honduras bringing great joy to the people and growth to the name of Christ. Our 100 churches grew to over 200 churches in just a couple years. Earthly crisis is heaven’s opportunity to advance the Kingdom of God and we need to catch the vision. This terrible tragedy in Haiti will bring an opportunity for God and the Church if we open our hearts of compassion. “For we know that all things work together for good…” Let’s dig in and get started. We’re buying our first container and inviting Christians to drop off their donations at Christian Retreat. We will be responsible for packing, shipping and distribution. These containers can later be used for classrooms or even housing. Let’s just do something… and do it now. God is going to perform a great miracle and we want to be a part of it! Blessings.
Phil