As the rescue operation gets going, both the scale of the destruction, and the numbers killed, will shock and astonish us.
I heard on the news this morning an estimate of 10,000 people killed, but that number will rise, I imagine.
What can we do to help?
As a Church, we already support the work of Tearfund, and they are involved in providing relief for this disaster. See the link to their website, and give directly in that way. http://www.tearfund.org/en/news/philippines_typhoon/
Why should we give? Because that is what Christians do, in the face of need. 'Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?' (James 2.15-16)
We are people who have resources, and so we have the opportunity to make a difference, through partnership with those on the ground, like Tearfund.
St. Paul's closing remarks to Timothy are clear. 'Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment.
Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.' (1 Timothy 6.17-19)
God has entrusted us with money and opportunities to be generous with what we have. Instead of thinking first of our own comfort and convenience, we have the opportunity to respond generously to this particular need. Please consider what your response might be.
Some may wonder why I am encouraging giving money to this particular appeal, when at St. Andrew's we also have an appeal to raise £40,000.
Again, St. Paul has an fascinating insight into how generosity becomes infectious! 'Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. (2 Corinthians 9.6-8)
As we seek God's glory in facing a time with many needs, I believe He will enable us to be far more generous that we had imagined, and others will be blessed.
Best wishes,
Richard
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