By Not Known
Our region has seen another natural disaster this week with the earthquake that happened near Yogyakarta.
What do we make of these things?
Some may see the hand of God in judgement against Indonesia for various evils including resistance to the gospel. Others may see it as a sign of approaching end times and the return of Jesus. They may be right. Or they may be wrong. That king of speculation is best left to angels who are closer to God than we are.
We can also see it as an opportunity to do good in Jesus’ name. People who are made in God’s image has died and others who were made in God’s image are suffering as they mourn the loss of loved one, the loss of livelihood and the loss of homes and possessions.
How can we do good? We can certainly pray. Appropriate prayer points are to ask for strength and effectiveness in the relief and rehabilitation programmes. And for generous hands and hears by individuals and nations who are in a position to give. And for corruption and other barriers to effective relief to be removed.
We can also give. Our elders and deacon have agreed that we will have a congregational appeal for relief funds. The funds will be channelled through a Christian relief agency with transparency and accountability and with a good track record in avoiding problems such as corruption.
Why give?
We should give because
- God has given so richly to us in Jesus.
- The needs are great.
- Indonesia is our neighbour.
- We are privileged with prosperity and tranquillity.
- We can.
- God tell us to.
- It is an opportunity to show God’s love in a nation where opportunities to talk about God’s love are restricted.
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people… (Gal 6: 9- 10a)