As I watched on the news of the devastating earthquake and tsunami, I was sadden. I couldn't even quite imagine what it would feel like to be in the midst of that kind of disaster. I am always grateful to see so many Humanitarian services step up to help immediately, without regard to the nationality or religion of the recipients. Then there are many services that are part of a longer-term effort to meet the needs of these disaster victims. Although those jobs have got to be hard, it must also be very rewarding to know that you are helping and reaching out to serve a fellow brother or sister, in time of need.
I have heard people say "oh if only we could do something". Well, how grateful I am for the opportunity we have to give monetary donations but more important, is the fact that we can pray for these victims. Now maybe to some, that sounds old fashion... but I know personally that prayers matter. I am grateful to know that my Heavenly Father lives and that He hears and answers our prayers. I know when I was battling cancer ... both times, there were so many who prayed for me. Some of who were friend of a friend, they didn't even know me personally and yet they petitioned to God in my behalf, I was touched. I am grateful that there is something I can do for all those people in Japan, I can pray and that is what I will do.
Life is tough, it is a place where we learn and grow. Many of those tests we go through, are the greatest teachers in our lives. May we all take the time to stop whatever we are doing, and prayer for these dear people who have had their lives turned upside down (literally). Yes, we can do something and we really should.
Seattle Times March 11, 2011
"Access to our Creator through our Savior is surely one of the great privileges and blessings of our lives. I have learned from countless personal experiences that great is the power of prayer. No earthly authority can separate us from direct access to our Creator. There can never be a mechanical or electronic failure when we pray. There is no limit on the number of times or how long we can pray each day. There is no quota of how many needs we wish to pray for in each prayer. We do not need to go through secretaries or make an appointment to reach the throne of grace. He is reachable at any time and any place." ~James E. Faust July 2002
"God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way." ~ Unknown
"Find a need and fill it." ~Ruth Stafford Peale
"He who gives when he is asked has waited too long." ~Sunshine Magazine
