AS A CHRISTIAN, YOU ARE A MINISTER OF RECONCILIATION
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“Now all things are of God, who
has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the word of
reconciliation.”—2 Corinthians 5:18
Thousands of acres of forest, a
great many homes have been burned due to a rash of wildfires in the western
part of the United States. Fires currently burn in many western states
including Arizona, California, Colorado and Oklahoma. Nineteen firefighters
have been killed battling the blazes along with some home owners. Firemen have risked and sacrificed their own
lives in the rescue efforts while their own homes were being burnt to the
ground. Along with the devastating fires
in the western part of the United States, the eastern region has experienced
record breaking flooding. And in
Oklahoma, clean-up efforts continue due to the tornados. Across the country, people are helping victims
and their family members in any way possible.
True compassion not only tries
to understand the pain of others, but also provides practical help.
In light of these recent
calamities not only in America but that have occurred world-wide, let us consider
how we can express care and concern for those affected.
First, remember that you and I
have a wonderful privilege; the ability to touch anybody anywhere in the world
through prayer. No matter how far away the victims are, they
can be comforted by God as He
responds to your heartfelt cries. So as
soon as word of a tragedy reaches you, start praying for the victims, rescue
workers, and officials managing the crisis.
Let the Holy Spirit guide you in petitioning God for protection,
provision, comfort, awareness of His presence, and whatever else He deems
fitting. “Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know
what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession
for us with groaning which cannot be uttered” (Romans 8:26).
Second, donations (money, food,
clothing, and household goods) and assistance of many kinds are usually high
priority. It is wise to team up with
dependable relief organizations and to consult trusted sources about what is
needed. Travel limitations may narrow
your options, but in local situations, you can express compassion with words of
comfort, a warm embrace, or something as simple as a listening ear. Through this kind of love, the world will
recognize its true Light—Jesus Christ, who was anointed to bring good news to
the afflicted, bind up the brokenhearted, and comfort all who mourn (Isaiah 61:1-2).
Today, ask the Holy Spirit to
reveal ways to pray for those that are still suffering, and how you can
minister comfort to those that are
in need. Your prayers and actions can
have a profound impact.
Prayer—Father
I thank You that I am a minister of reconciliation. Holy Spirit will you please show me ways that
I can minister and pray for those in need, in Jesus Name. Amen.
