Surrender is Freedom

I realize neither of these are the first devastating natural disasters, not even close. But this time, it feels particularly overwhelming to see what’s happened in these two counties in a matter of weeks.

How do I respond? What does the rest of the world do? Part of my trouble is the desire to be a super hero; swooping in to save everyone. I say that because only a superhero could accomplish such a feat. But the masses of people, military and civilian, are doing all they can to rescue helpless people. I feel like a schmuck simply viewing it all from the Internet.

Those people have no choice, I do. This time. I live in Southern California, which means there is a decent likelihood that a quake could ravage my community. Then I’d be among the devastated. Hopefully, alive to help rescue and save others.

I don’t need to be a hero. Not important. It’s just that for a very long time I’ve cared very little for others around the world. They seem far removed from me. Devastation in other countries, other cities…I’ve always sat down, read the horrible news and then went on with life. Telling myself its not my problem.

You have to keep living either way, I realize that. It’s just a different impact on my heart now as I find myself overwhelmed for these people in Myanmar and China facing such horrifying tragedy. Family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, business partners, all dead.

Some are called to take off and help. That’s great and they likely have the means to do so. But for everyone else there is unquenchable need to pray for God to help these people. To ask for healing, protection and the means to help. But also, to pray that we learn from their experiences however possible. Could be our home someday and we want to be prepared. We don’t want to be so removed from society, the world and reality that we forget people matter. That we are ignorant and unprepared to do whatever it takes.

So, for now I’ll ask God to help these people where I cannot. To allow this experience and chaos to draw others to Himself. He IS the great King of kings.