The Star reported that seven northern and east coast states are bracing for thunderstorms, heavy rain and possible floods as strong winds may develop into a cyclone.Severe weather is expected to hit Perlis, Kedah, Penang, Perak, Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang from today till Monday.
The recent flood in Johor and Melaka struck a bit of despair in myself to think of the effect of natural disasters like this happening, and the question that I asked myself is, "What is the church doing in response to this?"
We certainly can pray for the rain and strong wind to stop or at least lessen in its severity, and rejoice in it when our prayers are answered. But what if, our prayers are not answered? Are we prepared to go the extra mile to help our fellow rural brothers and sisters in need? Are we prepared to go the extra mile to serve those who are severely affected by the floods?
While many will be worrying and lending their helping hand, even to the point of risking their lives helping out in the evacuation work, many are happily staying at home drinking coffee, enjoying the cool air thanks to the heavy rain (Malaysia rarely enjoys cold weather), watching tv, or even blogging (Lord, forgive me).
I applaud people who had made a difference in the midst of the emergency like the RELA team, the Red Cresent Society, the Tzu Chi Buddhist Merit Society, and concerned individuals who had give away their time, energy and money in helping out in big and small ways, to stand with the victims in times of need.
I am also saddened to hear very little news report of any Christian group or churches that rise up in response of the need. There are some initiative that I would like to highlight, namely Daniel, and the NECF, although as what I understand, was a bit late. NECF is setting up a Action Team to prepare for the coming severe storms especially in the East Coast of Malaysia to help out with relief work.
I hope that we can do more than just praying and getting obsessed with "commanding" storms to stop, but also to dirty our hands when the need arises. We should be the ones who are more eager to help out in crises like this, to reflect the love of Christ. Certainly, we need to be more prepared in the future for crises like this, especially the churches in the East Coast of Malaysia. Let us not only witness with words, but also through our deeds.
Forgive us Lord, for being unprepared. Remind us Lord to count our blessings and to bless others in need, especially to our neighbours in times like this. Help us to love them as we love ourselves.
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