Christianity in the midst of disaster

Why is it that Christianity is at its best when life is at its worst? I’m sure God set it up that way for a reason. When things are down, that’s when we realize that we can’t rely on ourselves and we can’t control our lives, and it’s in those moments that God can really make an impression. He often does this by using His followers to show love to those who are hurting.

That’s true whether it’s a personal tragedy or a disaster that affects millions, as Hurricane Ike and Hurricane Gustav have in the last few weeks, or as the Myanmar cyclone did earlier this summer (see our news piece on the continuing efforts of underground churches there in this issue). These moments are when we as the body of Christ are at our best; when we show our “true religion,” as James 1:27 calls it; and we devote our time and resources to show the love of Christ to others by caring and providing for them.

During these awful events, I love to read the media coverage because it’s one of the few times Christians get written about without any form of criticism or controversy. When we feed the hungry, provide shelter and equipment for the homeless and lend a helping hand or an ear to listen, we show the love of Jesus more than any words can, and no person—no matter how anti-Christian—can say anything bad about it.

Here are four ministries with outstanding reputations that are providing for those hurt by these disasters, both inside and outside the U.S. All of them are in huge need of funds, so I pray that you will give as the Lord leads you and show love as only the body of Christ can.

Convoy of Hope (Assemblies of God):
convoyofhope.org

Southern Baptist Disaster Relief:
namb.net

Billy Graham Evangelistic Association:
billygraham.org/News_Article.asp?ArticleID=372

Samaritan’s Purse:
samaritanspurse.org