Maybe you, like me, sat in shock when you heard of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that hit Haiti on January 12, 2010. My heart ached when I saw pictures and videos of the aftermath. My immediate response was to pray and wanting to go to help.
A couple days later, I learned my old Lab boss and his wife, Virgil and Kathy Troyer, were on their way from Honduras to Haiti to help. Virgil and his family were missionaries in Haiti for a few years before working in Wooster. Most recently, they have been in Honduras helping with their disaster training as a regional disaster management coordinator for MCC (Mennonite Community Center). Maybe it was because I have been involved with a study of Esther, but I thought "such a time as this"....Virgil is perfect for this! He knew Haiti, the people, the language, had worked with a clinic there, and had helped at our hospital with disaster training. It's like God knew he was leading Troyer's through life to be there for this moment. (Imagine that!) Oh, how I wanted to go.
As the days have gone by, I have been praying, talking with people, and gathering information about the situation and how I might help. I heard of a medical teams that were being put together and after all I have Phlebotomy and basic medical experience. I have been to a third world country, so the poverty wouldn't be so new (although you never get use to that) However, I am not a surgeon or surgery nurse, which is most needed right now. I thought about going to the Red Cross to volunteer. I already have their disaster training. Or maybe other organizations. However, I have an urge to represent God more openly than what I might be able to with some organizations. I believe God will use me "somehow".
As the past couple of weeks have gone by, my heart continues to be broken over the lives that have been lost and their grieving loved ones, the children who are orphaned, the people that are starving, and the unrest of these hurting people. I get angry when I hear of people trying to take advantage of families and children with human trafficking.
I keep thanking God for the many He has working there and praying for their continued strength and safety. Now, instead of that leap of excitement for Virgil and Kathy, I hurt for them and what all they are being exposed to. I am sure they have seen more than most will ever see (or want to see) in a lifetime. I pray they and the many other Christians can be a Light to those around them. Please pray for them ALL!
I am still praying for an opportunity to go to Haiti. At this point in time, I am pleased to say there has been recent communication with regards to ways we, as a church, can help. Lord willing, in the next week Pastor Daron, myself, and others will have information out to you on ways to help. Please stay tuned.....
Sunday, January 31, 2010
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