There were present at that season some who told Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices.  And Jesus answered and said to them, "Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things?  I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they were worse sinners than all other men who dwelt in Jerusalem?" (Luke 13:1-4)

 

There is no reason it couldn't or shouldn't be us. All of us – Americans, Haitians, Africans, Europeans and every tribe and tongue on the earth – share a common plight and common need.  Sinners are we all in need of a Savior.

 

And so when we see the images of devastation from Haiti, we are moved not to some self righteous pity, but to a sympathy of commonality.  And out of that commonality we pray.

 

We pray for the physical needs of the homeless and hurting and for the grieving.  And our prayers motivate us to help.  There are numerous credible relief organizations mobilizing even now.  Among them is Samaritan's Purse, a ministry of evangelist Franklin Graham.  You can follow their relief work in Haiti and donate at their website.

 

But we pray also for their spiritual needs. As Christian relief organizations mobilize we pray that the inhabitants of Haiti may see the glory and goodness of Christ in their efforts. May ever cup of water, ever meal served and ever shelter erected declare the compassion of the Savior and may many believe in Him.

 

We will keep the church up to date on any opportunities that may arise for our involvement.