Tropical Storms

Sisters, the phone is ringing and women are calling for help. Marriage problems, prodigal children, loss of jobs, death, health failing and the list goes on.

This morning in the news they are warning those along the east coast about tropical storms. They are being asked to be prepared. I imagine grocery store lines are getting long and hardware stores are selling flashlights and batteries. I saw people stacking bags of sand to try and stop some of the water.

We have been told that trials will come. James says "My brethren(sisters)Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing."

We have all heard many sermons on this verse. As I listened to one of my dear sisters in Christ cry on the phone yesterday, I was reminded that trials are coming and we need to be prepared. The thing is,sandbags will not hold back the trials any more than they can stop water. Trials will come. We don't have to look for batteries to stay in the Light, we have the Light.

As we serve we will be called upon to minister to those in trials. My friend did not need me to quote scripture or give her advice. She needed someone to listen and hurt with her. She needed to be loved on and accepted right in the middle of her trial. Because of your personal trials, You will be able to feel her hurt and have compassion.

You are in a special place to reach out and hear, touch, love those hurting around you. Today let's be ready to "Rejoice with those who are rejoicing and weep with those who are weeping".