First Responders

So, do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. 

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my right hand. 

Isaiah 41:10

You would think that in the midst of a national disaster (devastating earthquake in Haiti) that God would have all of "His first responders" busy. But, God sent a group of first responders to His church last night.  In less than twelve hours, God called a group of His people together for the sole purpose to share His love to a hurting family.  The message was very clear from God, "this prayer service is not for information, gossip, conjecture, or gloating. There will be plenty of people OUTSIDE this church who will be throwing that and more at them. This is a prayer service to show this family that we love them, God loves them, and we are surrounding them in prayer and love. They need this more than ever at this time".  

The prayer vigil was powerful.  We sang, read scripture and prayed.  Not only did we pray for the family, but we prayed for ourselves....that we would be strong and courageous as we face the days ahead together. 
It was evident that these prayers originated with God...

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. 

We do not know what we ought to pray for but the Spirit himself intercedes for us

with groans that words cannot express. 

And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit,

because the Spirit intercedes for the saints (believers) in accordances with God's will.

Romans 8:26

All of us that were present bore witness to what God can do for His children in crisis. These words do not do justice to the power and love that was present as we joined together last night.  We truly do not have to face anything in this life alone. 

Thank you, most precious Lord, for what you did last night for this family.  Mostly, thank you for allowing those of us that were there to experience the mighty power of your love.  Help us to share this experience and your love to those that are hurting in the world.  Help us to be first responders to all those in need...whether physically, emotionally or spiritually.  Amen