Devastation...

As many of you know, Haiti was hit yesterday by a massive earthquake. The epicenter of the quake was most prominent and devastating in and around the capital of Port-Au-Prince. Numerous buildings and land standing structures were violently shaken and their foundations severely compromised. Entire communities have been left in literal "rubble." Countless people have been affected by this catastrophe either in injury, displacement and even death. The great majority of these people are residents of Haiti. However, with this small country lying only miles from south Florida, this tragedy has crossed many waters in order to touch many victims locally here.

So it is, whether there or here, many Haitians and their family now know first hand real and painful loss. Families have lost touch of loved ones still living within Haiti's boarders and it is often this state of "not knowing" that is very difficult.

We know, as Christians, that God was not and is not surprised by this event. He, through His own mysterious yet, loving purpose, has allowed this earthquake to take place. He is not removed from Haiti, but quite the opposite, He is likely more near now than ever. Thus, it is our responsibility as servants of God and His church, to pray for the people of Haiti and their families both here and there. We must pray that God would be plainly and mightily noticed in this time. He is the God of all comfort and is the ONLY source of true and real comfort for all those struck by this great disaster. We must diligently pray for not only physical rescue but spiritual rescue as well. In all of this, we must look to Christ as the author and finisher of our faith and find our hope and peace in Him.

So, to all my Haitian friends, brothers and sisters... I am praying for you!

"The Lord bless you and keep you;

the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you;

the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace."

- Numbers 6:24-26

For His Kingdom...