God Is With Us

Canned goods with short messages of hope were included to

relief packs distributed among the survivors of Typhoon Yolanda

(Haiyan) in the Philippines.

"Now behold, God is with us..."      - 2 Chronicles 13:12 (NASB)

In November 2013, the Philippines was visited by the most powerful typhoon ever recorded specifically in the Visayas that left many homeless and lost the lives of many relatives. This also led many people in exodus from their province devastated by the typhoon to their relatives in the Metropolis of Luzon.

Many asked questions like, "Will God attend and listen to their needs? Is God really alive?"

When the tragic news reached the whole country and abroad, different nations came to be of help. The Church asked leaders and mobilized the people together with Church's organizations to help and assist the victims.

Medicines, foods, clothing came pouring in. Monetary and material assistance both came from different personalities. Small and big efforts from different groups and walks of life came into the rescue.

Meeting some survivors, asking them the same questions "Do you think God is attending to your needs and listening to your prayers in this time of devastation?"  "Do you think God is alive?" "Where do you think God was when tragedy struck your place?" "Where do you think God is at this very moment?"

I was touched by their answer, that I wasn't able to notice my tears flowing towards my cheeks already. Their answers that made me cry: "God truly listens. He knows everything and intervenes. He cares about us and for us. God is alive and He is very much visible in those people who shared, came, and helped us in our needs."

Yes, God's loving presence will be alive and felt through our generosity and willingness to be of help and service to our brothers and sisters especially those who are in need.

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for letting us feel your loving presence, your concern, your loving care in especially in times of difficulties. Thank you for touching the hearts of many and sending them to help us. Bless them, Lord in Your abundance of grace and mercy. Amen.