The harsh reality of life

2 days after my last post the day dawned very hot and very windy. Anyone who has lived in the rural parts of Victoria knows what such a day may bring. Fire! Black Saturday as it has been termed will long live in the minds of Victorians. 200 people lost their lives on that fateful or should that be fatal day. Over 7000 have been left homeless. Salvationists along with many other agencies and services have been working ever since to bring relief to those affected.

Jennifer and I live in suburban, almost beachside Melbourne, but along with other officers and soldiers we have had a small part to play. The reality of life is that we have many other things to do, but helping out in even small ways helps. Being able to listen to a 9 year old talk about taking their pets with them when they were being evacuated was just one highlight. Seeing the look of joy in her eyes at being given a teddy bear for her and one for each of her siblings was matched by her sheer excitement at receiving a new toothbrush. The look of gratitude on Dad's face means that he will not only remember that the Salvos helped them, but also that they took time to be interested in his child's story.

The harsh reality is that many of the survivors need someone to listen as much as they need the money and material goods we were giving out. "Thank you for validating my experience" were the heartfelt words from a young businesswoman who had told us of her guilt at not losing her house even though her business has come to a grinding halt.

I wonder what Jesus would do. I suspect we would find Him playing with the children or trying to relieve the guilt felt by those who are in reality guiltless. Proclamation of the love of God is best done at such times by showing that love. The joy of the little girl at receiving a toothbrush and the relief of the lady at having someone listen was matched by the older couple who having lost everything were given a Bible.

One day's labour in no way matches the selfless service of many of our colleagues who live in these areas and spearhead the relief and recovery operations. They have our prayers and our support.

Spare a prayer for them now!