The Other Side of the Prayers

I remember when it happened to New Orleans. Seeing the water level up to the roofs of houses, people stranded in dire conditions. It easily looked like a scene out of a developing country, until I was reminded that no, this was in the United States. Then we eastcoasters spouted the number one phrase all Americans are almost programmed to say when tragedy strikes: "you are in our prayers".

Sure we know how that goes when we're hearing the story... we are American after all. But now the tables have turned. We are now the story. The east coast is now where New Orleans was in 2005: devastated by an unprecedented storm. Relief efforts have begun, and now instead of offering prayers, we are the ones being prayed for. Our fast-paced way of life has come to a screeching halt. Now we are forced to take small steps when we are accustomed to sprinting. To add insult to injury, the rest of the world hasn't stopped. 

It is a sobering and humbling reality to be on the other side of the prayers. No place is immune from destruction and loss. For most of my life I felt safe in NYC because I was convinced natural disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes don't occur here. Now that I've done some living, I know better. Weather knows no boundaries and when it hits you hard, all you can do is survive and rebuild. This is the task that now lies before us.

May God watch over us during this difficult time as we reconstruct our lives. Give us the strength to press on in these dark hours and continue to keep us in your love and grace. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.