By Lois Hewitt

I tried to go to work today but the power was off and no water, so after making sure everything was ok, we ran some errands.  Delivered a little food to a friend and dropped off a camp stove we borrowed when the power first went off.

I saw towns I knew that looked completely different. I saw damage and roads still closed days after the original event.  My heart continues to break.

But almost every church had some sort of table out with food and water.  Some offered meals to go, some water and diapers.  One small church had one table with a few things on it. 

The number of items did not equate to the love and support being shown.  The generosity, no matter quantities, was impressive.

I know some get tired of me spouting on about God. I know some of you have been hurt by church folk.  I know the ideal can be difficult to believe for a logical mind.

When Jesus walked this earth, He spoke about loving your brothers as well as your enemies.  Because His death on the cross was for ALL humankind, so must our service be to ALL humankind.

If you were in need, and showed up at my church, there would be no questionnaire about how you vote, who you live with or any other such worldly qualifier.

The only question asked would be “what do you need?”.  That is how the church is to function, as a beacon of light cutting through the darkness.

I saw that today.  No judgements only concern.  No expectations of a return on investment only caring.  No political affiliations or party speak only camaraderie.  We are all truly in this together. 

The church is an extension of Jesus, a part of Him.  The church should be that beacon and I see it happening in this situation. And it makes me heart so happy. 

I even need to remember at times that the church is made up human beings. Beings that are flawed, scarred, hurt and full of love.  Not one of us is perfect, but when push comes to shove, most want to jump in and help.

I am thankful for all organizations offering help in this time of need.  Lots of places and businesses. But to see so many churches trying to fill needs is a blessing to me.

Living our life like Jesus taught is a Christian’s highest calling.  That is a lesson I need to remember every day, not just during a crisis.

We are truly in this life together. No one gets out alive.  I am committed to living more like Jesus. It can only make the world a better place.