In Response to Katrina

In the aftermath of Katrina, the staff of In Our Midst would like to encourage you to do whatever you are able to offer assistance or relief to those in such great need. If you have the funds, there are many reputable organizations that are taking donations of non-perishable food items, water, diapers, formula, etc. These organizations are able to distribute these items to those in need, something that most of us are unable to do. Personally, I would rent a fleet of buses to help rescue the victims if I had the resources to do so! Although I cannot rent a fleet of buses, I am compelled to do what I can. I know many of you feel the same way.

If you don't have the funds, perhaps you could offer your time to help these organizations sort the items and prepare them for shipping. Another need that everyone can meet is to pray. Pray for the ones that still need to be rescued; pray for the injured and for those who have lost loved ones; pray for all those that lost everything they own and have even had to be transported out of state. They may be in a safe place, but they are nowhere near being settled. Now they must begin to rebuild their lives.... Pray against discouragement and depression. Pray for all those who are giving of their time and energy to help these people. Pray for our government officials, that they will pull together as the citizens of this country are doing. Pray they will stop attacking one another needlessly and unite for the betterment of everyone. And pray specifically for our President -- that God would give him wisdom from above to make the best decisions; pray for his stamina and his faith.

Following is a list of reputable places that are taking donations. (This is not a comprehensive list by any means.)

Locally: (Edmond, OK)

Salvation Army

'For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.' "Then the righteous will answer Him, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink? 'And when did we see You a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You? 'When did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?' 'The King will answer and say to them, 'Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.'
Matthew 25:35-40 NASB

Photos: Associated Press via Yahoo! News

Posted by mary at September 2, 2005 12:37 PM