Many of you may not know that Joplin, Missouri is my hometown.  My entire family and many friends live there and have survived this horrific F5 tornado, though some quite narrowly.  Not all can give such a report, I am grieved to say.  Many lives have been lost in this event….  I traveled there first thing Monday morning and what I saw and more importantly experienced has forever changed me. 

In light of this recent catastrophe I couldn’t let another minute go by without acknowledging this historic devastation and the amazing love being released from these mighty people I call family and friends.  I have never witnessed such selflessness, community, and camaraderie as I did while seeing the countless survivors rallying for their community.  The responses I have gotten from far away friends that have journeyed here to help is amazing, as well. 

“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.” 1John 3:16

I am a puddle of tears most days, as I’m sure are you.  Both over the reports of life lost and in celebration of those found and just in general over the shock, grief and challenges that will linger there for months and even years to come. 

We all grieve for our brothers and sisters and we will stand with them in their darkest hour….

We pray today that God’s love, grace, and strength blanket our friends as a shield.  We ask specifically for renewal of our heroes that work day and night fighting for each life.  May their lives and families be preserved and renewed in strength and hope.  We cry out for God’s revelation to shine forth to reveal loved ones still missing as to give closure desperately needed.   We especially ask for immeasurable grace on parents that have missing children and children with missing parents.  We call forth God’s mighty comfort to surround them on every side and sweetly speak of His love for them.  We acknowledge God’s mighty power in Jesus to consume all of the enemies tactics to bring oppression, hopelessness and discouragement as they begin to move forward in their journey.  We bind all attempts of the enemy to bring fear, guilt and shame in any way.  We declare God’s restoration will be greater than all loss.  We call forth His mighty provision for each and everyone affected.  And we release His warring angelic host to stand guard against any further damage from storms or threats of storms in Jesus Name.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your heartfelt committment to stand in whatever way God leads you.  There are many ways to contribute:  financially, through volunteering your time, talents and/or trades, through prayer, etc.  Your impact and voice is vital to so many in need.  Bless you today.

 “Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone?”  Eccl 4:11

“…mourn with those who mourn.”  Romans 12:15