Thoughts on a recipe for life

Today, no recipe.  Or, if you will, a recipe for life.

The recent twister in Joplin, Missouri, have been on my mind lately.  Especially because of what tore through Alabama in April. It is one of the most frightening events that could ever happen.

More photo documentation on this person's Flickr (including the image above).

The astonishing response to disaster in Alabama was as expeditious as it was tremendous -- particularly from those in the body of Christ.  Similar reports of those desiring to help in Joplin have already surfaced.  This woman's mournful story honouring her self-sacrificing husband is akin to that of the Lee Family in Shoal Valley, Alabama.

Would you lift Missouri up in prayer?  Pray that the Holy Spirit would minister to their spirits and grant much courage for the long-term affects of this tornado.  Pray for recovery and restoration of the community there, that Christ's light would spread far and wide, and reach countless receptive hearts.

"This I recall to my mind,

Therefore I have hope.

Through the LORD’s mercies we are not consumed, 

Because His compassions fail not.

They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
“ The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, 

“ Therefore I hope in Him!”
The LORD is good to those who wait for Him,

To the soul who seeks Him.

It is good that one should hope and wait quietly

For the salvation of the LORD."
– Lamentations 3:21-26

We always have a choice, but interestingly, it is desperate times like these that people are forced to consider their lives, fears, and what is really important.  What truly matters, when all else is taken away and laid bare?

Last Sunday, I heard a sermon out of Hebrews 2, on fear.  It could not have come at a more fitting time.  As a Christian, I have nothing to be afraid of in Christ, and there is absolutely nothing earthly that can touch me (not even the Devil, by God).  When Jesus died on the cross, He conquered all of the things that could have frightened me before.

  "The last enemy that will be destroyed is death." 

– 1 Corinthians 15:26

And you needn't be afraid of death, even, if you know where you are going.

Thanks be to God!!!