Stewardship

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Ball of Confusion

The enormity of the disaster that has befallen the Gulf Coast of the United States is mind-boggling. With 90, 000 square miles devastated, the breadth of the problem seems to defy manÕs ability not only to grasp the gravity of the whole situation, but it also magnifies manÕs inability to deal with the precise problems presented, as in plugging the levee. As I watched the Katrina story unfold via the airwaves, IÕve listened as the public discourse has focused primarily on whom we should blame. Regardless of the final pinning, and there will be several culprits, the inability of local, state, and federal government to prepare adequately, then deal quickly with the problem, only showcases mankindÕs sunken nature. As human beings, we were dead and drowned long before New Orleans. This just brings it out.
Now, with 80% of New Orleans underwater, the operational readiness of emergency services has been found wanting by armchair quarterbacks across this country. The complexity of the issues confronting the authorities has revealed a seemingly endless string of faulty decision-making. Helicopters and trucks by-pass some people but help others. Nobody, it seems, wants to take responsibility for a mistake. Those needing help, rescue workers, media on site, and the nation act confused, even while many do their best to help.
I watched as Shepard Smith of FOX News stood near Exit 235 on I-10E and begged for authorities to help the people there. No help came. IÕve listened as murders and rapes were reported from within shelters, although no mention of the number of rapes or murders city-wide before the crisis was cited. Beignets to bullion, this bedlam had little effect on the rate. America, the worldÕs only superpower and a technology leader, seems to be reeling in these early days from a lack of organization and a missing quick strike reaction. Initial response for the crisis belongs to local government, followed by state involvement, and finally federal facilitation. Yet, most people are blaming our president for every woe that has befallen our fellow citizens. ThatÕs a hollow argument, but maybe God is trying to get our attention.
Instead of relying on government to supply our comforts and prosperity, maybe we should be looking to God Ð and God alone. God makes the rain fall on the just and the unjust alike. Maybe this disaster is a national test for America, a time for all to awaken to our duty to our neighbor Ð not just the one across the street. We give more money than any other nation to help in disasters worldwide, and weÕre donating now, but maybe it will take more than money this time. Maybe we will have to become uncomfortable and invite American refugees into our own homes and share the blessings God has given to us. And maybe God is accelerating our national demise through economic catastrophe so our presence in the Middle East will be diminished, giving the enemies of Israel to be what they think as an opportunity to drive the Jewish nation into the sea. When that happens, God will intercede supernaturally. Oh that He would do that now. Come quickly, Lord; You are our only hope!

Mountain Time Moment

Enjoy prosperity while you can. But when hard times strike, realize that both come from God.
That way you will realize that nothing is certain in this life.

Ecclesiastes 7:14 NLT

Complete story with verse links at:
http://home.comcast.net/~philemon25/BallOfConfusion.pdf

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