9/11 Rememberance Event

Local heroes lead county in 9/11 retrospective
Speakers at downtown ceremony remind of need for awareness
BY RACHEL KIPP - rlkipp@marion.gannett.com

She was born several years before the World Trade Center opened, but as a child sightseeing in New York City, Laurie Marx thought the Twin Towers had forever been part of the skyline. "I was born in 1966 - I turned 40 this summer - and it opened in the 1970s," said Marx, Marion. "When you're a kid, you don't realize that kind of thing." Forever ended five years ago this week, with images that are seared in everyone's memory. Carrying American flags, dressed in uniform or in red, white and blue, area emergency responders and others gathered in Marion City Hall on Monday evening to honor those who died in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and to thank those who continue to fight in wars overseas and at home. "It's important that we don't forget the day's importance and that we remember every day that we're still at war with terrorism," Marion Mayor Wayne Seybold said. "We have people who put their lives on the line every single day, whether it's here at home or whether it's abroad, so we as Americans can live our lives as we have for many years." Seybold, who was in Thailand recently with a group of local children participating in the World Children's Games, recalled stories told by the Israeli team of taking shelter from regular bomb threats. But he said the threat of terror is not always so far away. "There are things that go on that we don't let you know, sometimes in Marion, Indiana," he said. "So let's not forget this nation, Indiana, Marion, Indiana, we're still at war." Marion police and fire honor guards carried to the front of the crowd two memorial wreaths. During the ceremony, they flanked a memorial quilt Marx is piecing together from blocks she and others made after the material was passed out during 2002's National Quilting Day in Marion. She hopes to donate the finished product to a proposed Sept. 11 memorial museum. "It should make a nice large wall hanging," Marx said. Growing up, Dianna Newton was asked where she was when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. A different question, about their whereabouts on Sept. 11, 2001, will be posed to today's youth, she said. "I can remember sitting with my co-workers watching the plane fly behind the second tower and saying to another dispatcher, 'Where did that plane go?'" said Newton, a dispatcher at Marion Police Department. "It still had not dawned on me that a plane could go into the tower. I never thought I would see anything like it." Other Grant County residents described seeing the devastation at Ground Zero in person. Taylor University spokesman Jim Garringer boarded a bus bound for New York City with a group of students and staff several weeks after Sept. 11. Their trip was not to include a visit to the World Trade Center site, but that soon changed. Many times since, Garringer has been asked to name the most enduring memory of the experience. "It wasn't seeing the buildings; I'd seen that on television. When I saw it in real life, it was just a smoking ruin," he said. "As awful as that was, what made a greater impact on me, on my heart, were the people we met. "We talked to a police officer whose eyes teared up when we told him we were praying for him," Garringer continued, his voice cracking. "We met a 12-year-old girl who said, 'We're here looking for my mother.'" Grant County Commissioner Mark Bardsley, chaplain for the Marion Police Department, read entries he wrote in a journal while in New York counseling workers at Ground Zero. He read about a night spent praying for the dead over and over again as rescuers found more human remains. "'After a 14½-hour shift and more bodies exhumed, the day was done,'" Bardsley read. "'But this is what I came for - to serve.'" As the service drew to a close, the group recognized those in the room who serve in Grant County, providing emergency services to area residents. As their names were called, members of local police and fire departments, paramedics, conservation officers, dispatchers and others raised a hand and were acknowledged for their efforts. Marion fire Capt. Paul Thompson recalled attending a ceremony in New York when families received medals on behalf of more than 300 firefighters killed Sept. 11. "I say to you all, God bless their memory and to their families, and may God keep us safe," Thompson said. "They raised the bar. They set a standard for us to live up to. ... They may be gone, but they are not forgotten." Originally published September 12, 2006

The Body of Christ - Living and Active!

Tonight I am considering the work of the Body of Christ. The passage found in Romans 12:4-6 teach us about the works of the Body -- Ask yourself, what does the body of Christ mean?
Some say: Love - Support - Accountability - Refuge - Care - Community - Family - Belonging!
While these attributes describe the qualities, the Church is much more. How about - TEAM WORK?

Is the body of Christ a personal walk in Christ? Isn't it a personal spiritual walk in Holiness and religious piety? Certainly that is a part of it but isn't there more?

The work of the Body is dynamic and active. It has a responsibility for meeting needs. It is responsible for those who have little. It is a living and powerful "dynamo" that impacts those around us.

Jesus said that we are to love our neighbors as ourselves. This is a mandate not an option! It is a requirement to love others not just a busy social life.
Each of us have gifts to offer! The living church is a loving and active verb - not a noun. It is not a stained glass cathedral or quiet museum of historical artifacts. The church will be judged by it's quality of love not it's professional portfolio.

I have heard it said that love is spelled t-i-m-e. I also believe that love is spelled t-i-m-e s-p-e-n-t l-o-v-i-n-g.

Our test in heaven will be in relationship with Christ for eternity sake but we will be judge based on what we do in Christ to love our neighbors!

So, if you are asked to carry your brothers coat one mile, carry it two miles!

A Fresh Start

Tomorrow I begin a new position at Indiana Wesleyan University. I am the new Alumni Director. This new position is both exciting and scary. I have many new things to learn, people to meet and work to do! This change comes after much prayer and searching for God's direction. There are many interesting changes that have occurred over the summer months but suffice to say, God has led every step!

Beginning something new also means facing new challenges, meeting new people and changing many routines. This change also offers a fresh start. For this reason, I contemplate the passage of scripture that says: (22) You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; (23) to be made new in the attitude of your minds; (24) and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. - Ephesians 4:22-24

When something is new it is initially exciting and feared. Many questions arise. You feel vulnerable. You tend to question yourself more; second guessing many typically held views. Even when change comes as part of your Christian walk, your natural tendency to question the implications of the unknown. This is especially true when change is negative and unexpected.

God is showing me that He can further deepen my faith and strengthen my walk with Him. I have a new heightened understanding of truth and faith in God. Often we thing of this passage referring to new believers but it may also apply to those who have walked with the Lord for many years. God, who is forming me in His image, has many lessons yet to teach me. Just in changing jobs there are many new experiences, so too in our walk with Christ.

This new position is a fresh start. It is an opportunity to learn and also to grow in my relationship with Christ. While many things remain the same, there are many more things that will further develop me personally and spiritually.

The right thing at the right time with the right motive

"I'm not concerned about all hell breaking loose, but that a PART of hell will break loose... It'll be much harder to detect. " George Carlin - US comedian and actor (1937 - )

I like this saying in general. It is especially profound when complacency sets in. While I can not endorse everything George Carlin has said or written, I like this interesting quote with a slight variation. "I am not concerned about all hell breaking loose, but that if it does, it will be hard to detect." It says to me that I must be on my guard at all times of my life. For me, the concern I have is that the work of Satan may be underway while I remain unaware of it's influence. As a believer, the problem may not be in the "out and out" sinful selection of it's influence but in missing the best God has for me.

There are times when crisis comes and I fully miss God's lesson for me. While at other times, when life seems to be going so well, do I miss the opportunity to fully depend on Him? I am thankful that God is patient willing to guide me, eventhough it may take a while.

In recent days I have come to conclude that Christ is with me in a whole new, refreshing way! This profound truth is like I have never really known this before. Sure, I have preached it and counseled many but may have missed it for me personally. Like a bolt of lightning, I understand this truth as if it were the first time!

The challenge in life is not doing the wrong thing - this is all to obvious to all of us! The challenge is doing the right thing at the right time for the right reason. God's divine direction is living on the cutting edge of a personal relationship that will revolutionize the soul daily.

When crisis comes, do we see Christ in the midst of it? On this one-year and one day anniversary of Hurricane Katrina have we learned the obvious lesson that Christ is with us even in the midst of tragedy as well in the midst of calm.

Emergency Workers are dealing with stress and crisis every day. Read the following stat and realize the importance of praying for and supporting Law Enforcement Personnel.

SEVENTY-FIVE OFFICERS KILLED IN FIRST HALF OF 2006; TRAFFIC-RELATED FATALITIES ON THE RISE

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The number of police officers killed nationwide during the first half of 2006 increased by more than seven percent over the same period last year. Seventy-five federal, state, and local law enforcement officers were killed during the first six months of 2006, according to preliminary numbers recently released jointly by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) and the Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS). This is an increase from the 70 officers who lost their lives during the same period in 2005.

California and New York were the deadliest states for law enforcement officers during the first half of the year, both with eight deaths. Illinois and Texas both ranked second with six fatalities apiece, followed by Virginia with five deaths and Florida with four law enforcement fatalities. Of the 75 officers killed in 2006, 30 were shot, 22 died in automobile accidents, 11 officers succumbe to job-related illnesses, five were struck by automobiles while outside of their own vehicles, four officers died in motorcycle accidents, two were killed in helicopter accidents, and one officer was killed in a bomb blast. Over the past 10 years (1996-2005), a total of 1,635 law enforcement officers across the nation were killed in the line of duty.

According to NLEOMF Chairman Craig W. Floyd, one of the most troubling trends is the growing number of officers killed in automobile crashes. "The number of officers killed in automobile crashes has increased by 40 percent over the last three decades and by 22 percent over the past year," Mr. Floyd stated. "For the last eight years, the number of officers killed in traffic-related incidents has surpassed the number of officers killed in shootings. It appears that this trend is continuing in 2006." He added that increased driver training for officers, improved safety systems in law enforcement vehicles and citizens who are more attentive to officers stopped on the side of the road will help to reduce these fatality figures.

"The increase of law enforcement deaths in 2006 means that COPS will be reaching out to 75 more families who are going through the worst pain and heartache they have ever known," cited Jean Hill, National President of Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS). "Concerns of Police Survivors understands the pain that families feel when losing their officer. The safety of all our officers is in the hands of every American and we all need to do whatever it takes to keep law enforcement families from becoming members of COPS."

Visit the NLEOMF website for this and other Facts & Figures.: <http://www.nleomf.com/TheMemorial/facts.htm>

A HURRICANE OF COMPASSION!

Time and time again I heard the phrase, “If it weren’t for the Church….” In March I had the incredible opportunity of joining the thousands who provided Hurricane Relief throughout the Gulf States. Serving as community chaplain with Samaritan’s Purse organization was an experience I will never forget. I, like many others, was overwhelmed by the impact of Hurricane Katrina. The devastation was incredible. The poor in those communities seemed to be impacted the most. Hurricane Katrina took lives, destroyed property and disrupted the lives of thousands of people in Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana. Mile after mile I drove along the Gulf shore and witnessed homes and businesses leveled to the ground because of the Hurricane’s impact. No one could imagine how destructive a storm could be.

As I spent time with local Police Departments, city leaders and residents I heard over and over again the impact that the Church has made. There have been hundreds of Churches and Church groups that have participated in the clean up and human services. I was impressed with the commitment of many who “stuck it out” through enormous circumstances. Many who stayed in their homes during the storm shared dramatic stories of survival. Many shared inspiring stories of everyday heroes who took incredible risks and displayed outstanding courage to help those in need. One resident spoke of how local first responders went above and beyond the call of duty to rescue a victim. There were many who spoke of powerful examples of a local community coming together to provide basic services until national help arrived.

One day I held a meeting with the Deputy Chief of a Police Department. His comment surprised me. He described that after the storm their basic services were overwhelmed. They soon realized that they had to come together and meet the basic needs of people. He talked about creating a “make shift” cafeteria to feed the people. “But soon our resources ran out,” he commented. “But, at that moment, help arrived.” He described the support that arrived first was a church group from Georgia. They were loaded with water, food and cooking supplies. “If it weren’t for the church, we could not have hung on!” He added. The church represented a hurricane of a different kind; a hurricane of compassion! Hundreds of church-based groups and thousands of people have emerged to meet needs.

I left Mississippi inspired. I gained a new motivation for working to unite churches together to meet needs. The witness of Christ’s compassion and Church cooperation was revealed to me in a whole new way! What a powerful example the body of Christ at work in a community! We can do this here in DuPage County. Churches can work together to serve the needs of the poor. LOVE Christian Clearinghouse is the networking resource for reaching needy families locally. We can have our own Hurricane of compassion!

Bad has it's good news!

TODAY we contemplate the the wonderful gift we have of sins forgiven. What is so important about Good Friday, you ask? What's that big deal? It is because of Jesus that we can find hope of eternal life with Him.

My brother offers a few reminders of God's grace extended to us:

1. CRUCIFIED Together With Christ (Galatians 2:20)
2. BURIED Together With Christ (Romans 6:4)
3. RAISED Together With Christ (Colossians 3:1)
4. SUFFERERS Together With Christ (Romans 8:17)
5. GLORIFIED Together With Christ (Romans 8:17)
6. CAUGHT UP Together With Christ (I Thessalonians 4:17)
7. ENTHRONED Together With Christ (Revelations 3:21)

"We acknowledge the Death of Jesus on our behalf. It was on the cross where Jesus took the entire weight of sin, though sinless, He took our sin upon Himself. Three days later He AROSE victor over the grave and death. Because He lives we celebrate these Seven Together's. Happy Easter!" - Brother Bob Carder

The sacrifice Jesus gave for the redemption of my lostness is an incredible gift! Thank God for what He did. This day was certainly not a good day for our Lord! May I never forget to be grateful.

As I look at those around me in distress and unaware of the tremendous gift of His shed blood, death and resurrection, may I re-affirm my commitment to care for others rather than to be cared for. May I re-affirm my need to serve other than be served by other. May I re-affirm the message of hope in Christ!

The good news is that even though the day may be filled with distress and frustration - a bad day, we can celebrate the good news. Even bad has it's good news of Hope eternal in Jesus Christ!

Life's Uncertainties and Love's Unshakable Foundation!

Few things are certain in this life. The Psalmist knew of the sure foundation when storm clouds draw close. In the 16th book of Psalm we find that although life has uncertainties, love is a certain foundation.

Living can be a scary business. It takes courage to cope and to navigate through life.
Psalm 16 is one of six psalms which have headings describing them as “miktams.” (See Psalms 56 – 60.) No one knows for sure what the word “miktam” means, but each of these psalms (especially 56 - 60) was written by David in times of extreme danger. Knowing this, we can make Psalm 16 our “miktam”– a psalm to live by when life gets scary.

When Life Gets Scary Be Sure To Turn To These Unshakable Truths:

* God is my Protector. (v. 1)

* God is my Provider. (vv. 2 - 6)

* God is my Counselor. (v. 7)

* God is my Hope. (vv. 8 - 11)

“I have set the LORD always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.”
Psalm 16:8.

Can you claim Psalm 16 as your own? If so, then you can face life with courage regardless of how scary it gets.

Remember that God is love and perfect love cast out fear!

Final Word on the Rapid Response Team Efforts

I write this brief update blog as I wait for my flight out of Atlanta.

We passed the baton onto three incoming chaplains out of North Carolina. It is exciting to know that our efforts will be furthered as we head home. We built on the efforts of those before us, watering the seeds planted and planting new ones. What a joy to be part of such a national team!

This is Kingdom work! We build upon those before us and others come along after us. Each of us give out of our giftedness and somehow, the Lord pulls all our efforts together.

No different on the local church level. Each member of the body of Christ pitches in and together we reach people for Christ. We saw many who gave their "bits and pieces" of time and talent that has eternally changed the hearts and lives of people.
(Many of our times were shared by the work of Samaritan's Purse and the United Methodist Church disaster relief group).

As Paul told the Corinthian church about the spiritual gifts, I imagine that many were excited to discover how they fit into the Kingdom efforts. So too should we. We should be excited to give of ourselves for the cause of Christ.

My part of the work as chaplain has ended and there were many powerful opportunities. While I may have completed my efforts in the Gulf for now, by no means have I ended my ministry of helps and service to people in need. I have much to do in my neighborhood too!

Each of us have the same opportunity. Perhaps not as obvious as the need in the Gulf but, lost people live nearby each of us. Our efforts are vast before us all as we consider those neighbors around where we live!

So, I say, let the mission continue!

Pray for lost people because they matter to God!

Pray for those I have touched in Jesus' Name in the Gulf.

Pray for the continued efforts of The Rapid Response Team chaplains.

Pray that the seeds planted will also see harvest.

Thank you for your prayers and support!

Day Seven - Worship and Rest

Sunday is the day to worship God and rest. That's pretty much what I did!

We worshipped at The Morningstar Missionary Baptist Church. This is Odell and Carol's church. Today they has quite a celebration. Several guests attended the church representing people who are leading the celebration of a mortgage burning and groundbreaking ceremony for their new construction. Some of these guests were the architect and contractor and the Mayor's wife of Gulfport was present too.

We were escorted right to the front of the church when we arrived. Later in the service we were given the opportunity to introduce ourselves if we were guests. I told my story on how I met Odell and Carol at the airport when I arrived. I was impressed that this congregation could be so positive after such devastation. Their faith was so refreshing. They sang, the minister cast his vision, and the youth sang (they had 40 youth in the congregation alone). Odell was involved in burning the mortgage. He was also part of the groundbreaking ceremony. It was a great service.

It was refreshing to hear a southern gospel altar call and message. I loved being there and felt the blessing of God.

That was a wonderfully refreshing worship experience! As for the rest, well, I have to admit that sitting around and doing nothing ain't my style. So, I did my laundry and packing. I cleaned my room. And I read a bit. We did get more pictures!

I felt refreshed after a bit of laundry. Perhaps this is because I could take my time, lounge around between loads and cat nap.

The day is not quite over yet so anything could possibly yet happen. I did hear that there are some folks arriving tonight from Northern Indiana. Perhaps I might make more new friends!

Until I post again,

Live From Biloxi, MS

Sunday Morning Summary And Reminder!

Routine is how we mark our time. This week has been marked not by routine or time, but opportunity. I have learned this week that the south doesn't stress themselves with the same things that I do. I usually start my day by getting the boys off to school and then I grab my cup of Panera Bread coffee. I spend time reading a devotional thought, a conversation with a "drinking buddy" who is sipping a cup of coffee too and writing a few thoughts, many of which are posted to my blog sites. Then I go about my day doing fairly routine activities. Meetings, phone calls, office work and planning. At the end of the day I head home to have dinner with my family. The next day it starts all over again in keeping with my routine. Sundays are no different. I start out my Sunday routine and usually can be found occupying a seat at WWC. Routine dictates my actions.

This week I have begun my day with breakfast at the camp kitchen and then someone leads in devotions and we chat over a cup of coffee. But this is where the similarities ends. I found that I just never knew what the day was going to bring. We would make plans but something better diverted our plans. Even my Sunday was impacted. I found that my routine changed and even my plans had to cooperate with another plan.

At home I account for every hour. I pack my day to make the most of every moment. Nothing entered my schedule unless I planned for it - for the most part. I live a very deliberate life now filled with routines.

Coming to the Gulf has changed this. It reminds me of how I used to live just a few years ago. I would start out with my plans and God would lead something else along my path that was better. I enjoyed the "divine interruptions" to my day. God's agenda came first!

Just this morning I planned on going to an 8:30 church service but instead I am posting a blog. There is no 8:30 service here until next Sunday. The hurricane has shifted the routines of many people. I have decided to attend a Gulfport church at 10:30 - Odell and Carol's church. They have had to shift their routine as well. Their church sanctuary has been damaged and they plan to have an outdoor service.

I love the "flow of the spirit" since coming and makes me long for the days when my routine allowed for interruptions from the Lord.

If there is anything I carry with me from this experience beyond the stories will be that God loves to surprise us with His presence and agenda. I am glad that my routine has been interrupted. This week the Lord changed our plans and placed us in situations that stretch our comfort zones. It was in those "less-than-routine" situations that God did His work through our lives.

Only God can take disaster, interruption, crisis-filled moments and shape a better outcome. I am glad for the reminder that His ways are always perfect. His ways are not my ways!

Oh, how I long to have daily divine interruptions!

Day Six!

Day six! It is the end of the day on Saturday. It has been a l-o-n-g day....

I started out at 5 am by meeting with the Gulfport Police Department. It is so interesting that I planned on coming and be in Gulfport and upon my arrival I was sent to Biloxi being told that Gulfport was no longer a site and later God opened a door for us to serve mostly in Golfport. Today I rode 6 hours with an officer Chris at Gulfport. This provided an opportunity to connect with several police officers and also talk with the dispatch personnel.

Interesting, as I spoke with the dispatch personnel I learned that two of them had been on duty during the hurricane. It was really dramatic to hear what they had to deal with. One dispatcher said that the only way she was able to get through the shift was to cry. She had to tell terrified and injured people that no emergency personnel were being sent out for rescue relief until after the storm. One man was seriously injured and had to wait 12 hours for help. That was the worst part about their job. They were not able to do anything except take calls, listen and cry.

I was able to make contact at the county jail also. We were transporting an arrested man and I was able to introduce myself to the ministry of chaplaincy to some personnel there.

In the late afternoon I was able to have free-time. Later in the evening I met up with the chaplains and project coordinator for dinner.

This is the conclusion to day six.

Day Five

Today is Friday. We started out pretty much like every other day, devotions and singing at breakfast. One of the things I have been blessed with is the testimonial and reports from the teams. Today is no exception. We heard from team members who have been working on the houses. They have had many wonderful reports. We also heard some singing from Willy Nelson tunes to Johnny Cash tunes. I have enjoyed the flashbacks to my mother and father's 8-track days. I forgot those old country gospel songs.

Our team of chaplains decided to go out as a whole team today. There were three of us and one in-training. I was the only man!

We visited the home of a Gulfport police officer, Leonard, whose home was being torn down. A group of Methodist from Georgia were the demo team. They accidentally struck a gas line just as we arrived. The whole place smelled of gas and we were beginning to get a little silly by the end of the hour with them. This would explain our next bit of trouble.

We were able to pray for that officer and also we were given the opportunity to share Christ with a Captain who "just happened" to arrive. We shared with him and prayed for him as tears filled his eyes. What a neat time! We learned that today was his wife's birthday. She is a nurse. We decided to go get a gift and take it to her at the hospital. (ladies will come up with any excuse to go shopping.). But this is where our trouble began. (More a bit later.)

On our way, however, we were given our next divine appointment. As we took a restroom break at the nearby Burger King (another thing women seem to do in groups), an elderly little woman approached us for food money. I dealt with her along with the chaplain in-training. This little woman appeared homeless and by her size she looked malnourished and very needy. She was specific about where she wanted to eat. She asked for a taco from a Taco Bell 2 blocks away. We walked her over and let her order whatever she wanted. The cashier stated that she was impressed with our generosity. To which I acknowledge that Jesus is the reason for any kindness in this world. As we stood at the counter I felt compelled to pray for her so I did, right there where we stood. The cashier join us in prayer as did the dozen in line with us. I did not notice right away the crowd until after my prayer - long as usual - and quickly apologized for my holding up the line. The people did not mind at all. We finished our ministry to this woman and shared the message of the gospel off to the side but loud enough that everyone had to hear us for sure.

Well, we finished with this great witness opportunity and headed over to the hospital with our gift in hand in search of the police officer's wife. Upon our arrival we begin to inquire about where this birthday girl and nurse could be found. We gave the name to several people who said that they didn't know her. We were persistent from desk to desk and several floors. We eventually went to human resources, who said they didn't know her. We asked that she be paged over the hospital speakers. They did it. And they did it again and again. But she did not reply. We went searching again floor to floor. I felt like I was part of an episode of "Designing Women." Finally our mystery was solved - by our Chaplain in-training. She began to ask around and found a nurse with the same first name who also happened to have a birthday today and whose husband is a Gulfport police officer. Our problem was that we had crossed last names of the two police officers we spoke with at the beginning of the day. We never laughed so hard! I think that the gas had affected our brains!!

The long and the short of it was that our mission was complete. We gave our gift and expressed our love and got out of the hospital before security escorted us to the nearest exit!

We completed our day by heading to the Gulfport PD and having a second meeting with the Deputy Chief and other staff. What an incredible blessing and openness we felt.

Late in the afternoon we finally got lunch. We were really hungry.

I finished my evening with one more round of site-seeing and picture-taking in Gulfport.

After dinner several of us did the kitchen clean up and dish duty.

I lay here refreshed with enthusiasm and thank God for the wonderful opportunities.

I will be getting us on Saturday by 5 AM to participate in a ride-a-long for the day with the Gulfport PD. Good night for now!

Supplimental Thoughts

The Word of the Lord reminds us of a very important point as we serve those in crisis relief work. Especially as we serve in the Gulf Coast area.

1 If then there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, 2 fulfill my joy by thinking the same way, having the same love, sharing the same feelings, focusing on one goal. 3 Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. 4 Everyone should look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. 5 Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus, 6 who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage. 7 Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. And when He had come as a man in His external form, 8 He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death--even to death on a cross. (Phil. 2:1-8)

Jesus did not come to be served but to serve. This passage tells us to be ready to give of ourselves and do the work as unto the Lord, serving the interests of others.

As we have seen and many have testified to us that the church, the body of Christ were the first to be on the ground here in the Gulf Coast region. The other day and again today as I spoke with the Deputy Chief of Gulfport and Biloxi I am reminded of the wonderful witness of the church as each commented that if it were not for the church, many would have suffered hunger and incredible loss. The relief from the church came within hours not days! Praise the Lord!

Even now there are hundreds of Christian organizations and thousands working together providing relief and mostly, the Love of Christ. We are seeing the humble efforts of God's people working to give material goods, labor and hope to many. They are doing this with an attitude of a servant. This is a powerful demonstration.

Just think, one year ago many of the families devastated by the fury of Katrina are now hearing that still, soft voice of a gentle Savior. Just one year ago, many homes had not read a Bible passage or heard a word of prayer and now there are thousands of Christian people leading others to Christ and praying for their families in these very homes every day.

Having the mind of Christ and being a servant for Christ is powerful!

Thank God that His army is marching to the orders of a grace-giving and loving commander; who emptied Himself...and gave Himself unto death on the cross.

Thank the Lord for the many wonderful witness of believers from all over the world!

Day Four

Thursday started out a bit chilly but it eventually got up to 69 degrees. My evening with Odell and Carol was very relaxing. We shared a wonderful evening and we ate Salmon cooked over a grill. Odell is a great cook!

Our day took us to Gulfport for some follow up to a family whose home was re-roofed by Samaritan's Purse. (And just when I thought we were done there!) What a great opportunity to share the gospel with them and pray for Glendora. She is the daughter and caregivers to her parents and she provides help to her brother who has MS. His home was re-roofed next door just yesterday. Pray for Ranson and Viola as well as their son, Ranson Jr.

From there we visited Gulfport and went to the police department. What incredible timing! Today was the Deputy Chief's (Alfred) first official day in his new position. I took that occasion to pray for him and bless his first day and new position. I told him that God ordained this day and meant for us to lift him up and cover his position with authority under God. He has been on the department for 21 years. We also inquired about a follow up to my contact from Chicago. I was told to connect with the Fellowship of Christian Police Officers (FOCPO) chapter while here. Just as God planned it, we arrived just in time to have lunch with the FOCPO group's monthly meeting. They invited us to join them and heard about an exciting way to connect with the rebuilding efforts of first responders. I will have to share with you about a way to give toward the rebuilding efforts for first responders. They are working 12 hour shift and well over 50 hours a week. Tomorrow we will participate in the destruction of Officer Leonard's home and the rebuilding ceremony. If a team could be organized to come to Gulfport in the summer, more help is needed in this effort to rebuild the homes of first responders. There has been a group from Canada who have given leadership to the local effort and the work of FOCPO chapter. Pray for the Chief of Police who has been in his position for a week and the Deputy Chief who I prayed for. Also the other 115 Officers and additional staff. We also handed out contact cards to the officers present that provides 24 hour, 7 days a week on-call chaplain hotline for those first responders needing to talk. On Saturday I plan to participate in a ride-a-long with this department.

We also were able to tour the destruction there in Gulfport.

We also learned about a serious issue with a man who is having his leg amputated today. He was featured in the Decision Magazine having prayer with Franklin Graham in the fall. His home is being worked on and there is hope that he will be able to arrive home as the work is completed. His daughter is also in our prayers. She is 5 years old and needs to have her second open heart surgery next month. Pray for this family.

A productive day indeed! We love divine appointments and wonderful opportunities. I could do this everyday! Perhaps not here though because I have yet to see a Panera Bread... :-). I love the hands-on pastoral, personal role I have been honored to serve in here.

That is all for now. I will report to you again on our further efforts in Gulfport and whatever the Lord has in store for us.

Day Three

Wednesday has been a very event-filled day. I am posting this blog report early because I am going to spend the evening with Odell and Carol. Finally, a home-cooked meal!

We started out this morning with "work orders." These are follow up visits to people that Samaritan's Purse (SP) helped build or repair homes hardest hit in Biloxi. What a treat! The people have been very gracious.

We visited a great grandmother, Fannie and her 4 year old great-grandson, Anias. She told her story to us. She and Anias and two others stayed. The storm surge came all-at-once. It filled the one-story house up to 8 feet. They climbed into the ceiling rafters to escape. Anias said that his grandmother was "sucked into the water" and almost drown. She fell through the ceiling panels into the rapidly rising waters. In as quick as the water entered the house it also left. And this happened each time the surge came in. They remained in the ceiling crawl space for hours as the storm raged. What a terribly frightening event. Anias was still living out that horrible event. Pray for little Anias.

We also had the awesome privilege of meeting with a single mother who has started her own business in the poor neighborhood of town which was also hard hit by the storm. I asked if a group of us could stop into the new store and bless it for God. She agreed. We met with her and as we prayed with her she wept. She was very grateful. We bought some things too. Her first sales to people outside of the state! Cool! She is very courageous. While many are leaving, she has decided to stay and start this business. I have taken many pictures so I can show you the items she is selling in case you want to place an order too! Pray for Teshina and her 5 year old daughter and 12 year old son. Her mother and father's home is being remodeled by SP team. (She and her kids live with her parents.)

We also met with the Dep. Chief of the Biloxi Police Department to pray for him and his staff. Dep. Chief McGilvary is an incredible leader. While his home was destroyed in the storm along with 46 other officers' homes, he guided, fed and networked nationally to help thousands. Keep them in your prayers.

One more story. We met with a woman who needed help moving boxes to storage. We helped and wouldn't you know, her adult daughter was helping and I discovered that she lives in Naperville, IL. What a fun connection! She is employed at Lucent. We talked and prayed together. She even knows where Wheaton Wesleyan Church is. I invited her to attend there, of course.

That is all for now. Be blessed!

Day Two

Day two - WOW! What an incredible eye opening experience it has been. I can't wait to share my photos with you of the tremendous devastation I have witnessed today and of the hope that people have.

First, prayer requests.
Last night we met Darlene. It was a divine appointment. We were at the airport to pick up another chaplain and she was sitting on a bench. Her story was one of incredible disappointment and loss. When we pulled up to the curb she recognized our vehicle I'd tag. She said that she was blessed by the efforts of Samaritan's Purse (SP). We prayed for her and shared the hope of Christ with her. She was very receptive. She will be traveling to North Carolina to pick up her adult daughter who is dealing with illness.

Pray for Che Che and Ione who we met today. They are needing the Lord. Ione will have her power cut off tonight because she isn't able to pay her bill. These ladies were very blessed to have our support and prayer. SP was involved in placing a new roof on Ione's home last month and they also were involved in the demolition of Che Che's home and cleanup. These women are widows and need the Lord. Che Che's son is in need of medical help and social security assistance.

A couple of us toured the Kiln and Bay area - hardest hit areas. Many of the homes - entire neighborhoods - were completely leveled. There is debris everywhere. I have many pictures to share with you of this area. There is one office building - a small home-like structure that was lying on it's side wedged between an electrical pole and a fallen tree. An amazing image.

Many stories can be shared. One story is told by a chaplain about a house that was completely under water. Everything was destroyed. SP was involved in the demolition work. The saddest part of that experience was having to demolish a grand piano. The home owner is a widow who cried as the team removed the piano. All her personal items were destroyed.

I am going to remain in Biloxi for the week. SP has finished all their work in Gulfport. There is plenty of need here.

Pray for the team leader, Marilyn who has served the Gulf Coast area since the fall. She is overwhelmed! Pray also for the 200 workers here from across the country working on the Methodist Camp here and several homes in the community. Pray also for the other chaplain, who is from Seattle. This is her second trip here. Her chaplain work in Seattle serves local police and fire personnel.

This evening is very relaxing. It is refreshing to hear what work others are doing.

I look forward to checking in with you again tomorrow.

Day One

I write you nearing the end of day one. I flew into Gulfport, MS this afternoon. Not so much of an adventure but a rather turn of events occurred. As I got off the plane here a couple approached me saying, "Hey, Pastor Rick!" I couldn't believe it but (as many may know from WWC) my former neighbor was on the same flight. Two years ago Odell and his wife moved south but I had lost contact with them. Wouldn't it just be like the Lord to renew Christian brotherhood clear across the country! It was a nice personal touch to meet familiar faces clear down here!

I am settled now in my dorm-room at a United Methodist Camp in Biloxi, MS. It was hit hard by Katrina because it sits right on the Gulf Coast. I can see the coast just a few hundred yards from my dorm. There are still many things to be done here. The nearby buildings are leveled or severely damaged.

I took a tour via car ride to see the devastation. Things along the shore are really in bad shape. A few miles in things appear to be taking shape. There are many opportunities to serve all around.

I will be trained and receive my orientation in the morning. I am not sure how God will choose to use me but I stand ready. Pray for me.

Until Tuesday, Rick

Live from Biloxi...

Final Preparation

It is the night before I head to Gulfport. As I prepare myself mentally I can't help but think about what a tremendous opportunity I will have to share Christ's love with hurting people.

With such devestation and hardship facing many in the Gulf states the opportunity share God's love is tremendous. My hope is to be a positive reflection of God's love and share His Word with people who are hurting.

I appreciate your prayers as I head out. I ask God to help me to be a blessing to people and that I receive His wisdom as I deal with circumstances and hear the hurts and life challenges of people.

Until my next blog.

Testing

This is a test. All through life you will be tested. The goal is not to avoid being tested. The goal is to be trustworthy! Testing will determine trust. Live from Gulfport - daily blog by Rick Carder