Perspective and Prayers

We are praising the Father this evening that all of our friends (and even the friends that we haven't been blessed to meet in person yet) are all safe this evening in Nepal.  The earthquakes and aftershocks that have/are devastating Nepal are on the forefront of our minds (and the minds of others we know).  These earthquakes have been strong enough that they were felt in our eventual home city and throughout the region where we hope to soon be moving and working.  Last night and in future days some of our friends are staying in tents outside their homes until they are sure it is safe to return indoors.  Efforts are being made to accumulate stores of food and clean water - and then attention will be focused on helping those around them.

If you are interested in being a part of helping this devastated region, check THIS organization.  I know for a fact they had people on the ground within hours assessing the needs and I am confident they will use their resources wisely.

Events such as these help put into perspective the menial problems that we have on a daily basis.  Even as our family waits in this holding pattern - struggling to find patience with a visa process that seems to be dragging out forever... we realize that when placed in perspective of eternity: all of these problems evaporate into nothingness.  All our struggles are but a blink compared to the eternity that awaits those of us who know salvation through Christ.

This perspective on eternity and our fleeting moments in this world can quickly break your heart. As Paul states in Romans 15:20-21... our ambition is to go where Christ has not been named and where people have never been told... The heartbreaking thing is that when you go to these places and you see people dying...you know that they are dying without the saving knowledge of Jesus. Then, suddenly, there is a phenomenon such as these earthquakes where thousands of people meet their end quickly and unexpectedly - and again you know that most likely every one of them was unprepared to meet their creator who will be judging their sin and sentencing them for eternity.

I can imagine what my thoughts might be on the field... "I was here in this city... did I meet that person? Did I use every moment for God's glory? Did that person get to hear the good news? Did I at least get to say the name 'Jesus' to them?

These type of situations really highlight the importance and the timeliness of our message. And honestly - we all face this struggle in sharing the light with those around us... Even here in the states we are never promised tomorrow... (how many times have I heard that invitation given? But it's true!)

We must always be ready with and answer for the hope that is within us and boldly proclaim it to everyone that we are able. We must be unashamed to publicly speak the name and salvation of Jesus. Because if there is a person in whose life Jesus remains unnamed... if that person has never been told of the salvation provided them through the one true creator... then they have no hope of the resurrection and eternal life we sometimes take for granted.

Be in prayer in these following days that those touched by this earthquake - and especially those touched by death - will be open to the eternal truths of sin, death, Jesus, forgiveness and redemption. Pray for boldness from our friends in sharing.  Pray for salvations faith to be placed in Jesus.