Old Wounds and Unanswered Questions

Hurricane season is part of the cultural make-up of South Louisiana. From June 1 till the 30th of November, we watch the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico with anxious eyes. That's a whole six months, half a year, we live with the treat of these storms. I can remember growing up how most people gave hurricane season little regard. Most didn't make plans or stock provisions until it was too late and mandatory evacuations were just too unpopular for our local government officials to call. I know people who threw hurricane parties while the storms came ashore. We just didn't take things seriously. Then Katrina. Levees broke, the city filled with water and over a thousand people died. Now we take this stuff seriously.

We've nowhere near recovered from Katrina and another major hurricane has come and gone. Praise God we were spared from the physical destruction of Gustav. Praise God the levees held and the city remained dry. Praise God everyone got out this time.

God, why couldn't you spare us from the emotional damage caused by the storm?

Why do old wounds have to be reopened?

Why?

I confess that I don't have any answers. I only know that such matters are God's business and are derived from a level of reason and wisdom far beyond our comprehension in this world's realm. I do know this; the suffering we endure as a result of hurricanes is minuscule when compared to the suffering Christ endure on our behalf. However, so many people aren't aware that there is strength to face the suffering from The One who suffered the most. These are the ones who live without hope, whose determination and resilience fade with each passing storm. I've already heard from several that Gustav was the last straw. They've had enough and are leaving the area for good. Its not a mass exodus, at least it doesn't look that way. Those I've spoken with who have Christ state economic and security reasons for leaving while those without just seem to be running. They feel the grass will be greener and the wind less vicious somewhere else.

To me, this only reinforces my belief that there is an urgency to love people and share Christ with the Greater New Orleans area. Unfortunately, this urgency seems to collide with a crisis of commitment from the Body of Christ. There are too many Christian social clubs and not enough good and faithful servants. We are letting the greatest evangelistic opportunity in our nation's history pass us by.

Father, forgive our disobedience. Convict our hearts and stir us to action. Use our voices, hands and feet to make You known to all. Show us Your glory through our obedience. And should we fail You by neglecting our city and go the way of the priest and Levite, please send the Samaritan. Amen