Hurricane Laura struck Louisiana yesterday as one of the most powerful storms in US history. At least six people were killed and power was knocked out for nearly one million customers. Arkansas is under a state of emergency this morning from damaging winds and flooding. All this in a region also grappling with the coronavirus pandemic.
In the midst of the “compound risks” we face these days, what can I say to encourage us on this Friday morning?
One of the ways God empowers us in the midst of suffering is by showing us his provision in the midst of suffering. Psychological studies show that gratitude reduces stress, fatigue, and inflammation, produces better sleep, and even lowers depression for those with chronic illness.
While I intend in no way to minimize the grief and pain so many are facing, I would like us to also seek reasons for gratitude in these hard days. So, name the worst challenges you face today. Now, let’s look for hope in some stories from across the week.
Are you grateful for people?
A Cleveland couple had to cancel their wedding reception due to the coronavirus pandemic, so they donated the food to a crisis center for women and children. Then, wearing their tuxedo and gown from the wedding, they helped serve 135 people.
A restaurant owner in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, gave away hundreds of free BBQ meals to residents after a devastating windstorm hit the Midwest. And the New York Times reports that thousands of young Lebanese adults are shoveling, sweeping, feeding, and fixing buildings and homes in response to the devastating explosion in Beirut.
Scripture teaches: “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one…
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