Conversation Starters: A Helping Hand in a Crisis

"In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 1:6-7, NASB). 

News of the bombing at the Boston marathon last week sent a shock wave through me. As a runner and an American, with friends living in Boston, I was left praying and trying to process it all as the story unraveled. It inspired me how some runners ran straight to the hospital to donate blood and how other cities are organizing runs to honor Boston. 

As Jesus' disciples, we have insight into how He responded in crisis moments and how we can try to help others in practical ways. God has told us that life isn't always easy. Jesus was in touch with God the Father through prayer and was into God's Word. He got to know the community, helped the sick and spoke of an everlasting hope to all, including the outcasts. 

Kelli Martin

We may not be able to do much physically to help people, but we can pray, listen to God and listen to others who are going through a crisis. We can trust God and simply be there for others. We can pray for an opportunity to share how God gives a peace through His Son that outlasts whatever circumstances are going on around us.

Study based on the workbook HeartCall: Women Sharing God's Heart (Jaye Martin, 1999).

A Day of Remembrance

"'Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful'" (John 14:27, New American Standard Bible).

As you probably heard, years ago a tragedy happened in downtown New York City on this day. Later, in the mix of saddening and shocking reports, my favorite stories were ones about heroes of the day. One story I remember was actually recorded in a running book called Going Long that is edited by Runner's World (you can find the book here). In that story, a seasoned long distance runner worked in the Twin Towers. His story stood out to me, because he took time to lead his office out of danger. He seemed gifted to be calm and to keep going under pressure, and he used those skills to help others around him during a time of crisis.

God sent Jesus to die for the world and our sins against Him and others. When we embrace this great grace that He offers, He sends the Holy Spirit to help guide believers through whatever happens in this life on earth. Through Christ's sacrifice for us, we have a great hero in Him.  In tough times, God can give us peace and hope as we trust in Him.

Lord, we know Your Holy Spirit is the divine Comforter. Please bring healing for the families of those who passed away that day. We pray others come to know You, because we have seen how You can transform lives for the better. Thank You for Your grace in sending Jesus to sacrifice in our place. Let Your Holy Spirit renew our hearts with a love for You and who You are. Help us share with others how You offer peace and hope. Please be with our country during this time of reflection. Amen.

suggested reading:  John 14
photo from www.bumperstickermagnet.com