No matter where we turn these days, we are confronted with disasters. Natural and man-made disasters are the probability of a planet that groans for redemption. These frightening events have plagued mankind since the curse entered through Adam. Every inhabitant of earth accepts the inevitable—disaster will come. As a matter of fact, many of us end our busy day by peering into high-definition clips of earthquakes, floods, bombs, fires, or any number of tragedies that others endure.
Rarely, though, do we find ourselves in such trauma. The two-dimensional images we look at sadden us, even alarm us, but almost never touch our lives in a tangible way. We can all be thankful for that. But, what would you do if you found yourself in the midst of a disaster? Are you prepared for a calamity that threatens your home, your livelihood, or even your life? For most, the answer is “no”. And all too often, the helpless state of victims is worsened because little, if any, emergency planning took place before the crisis. Having a plan and critical supplies can be the key to surviving during and after a disaster.
So, even though disasters can seldom be predicted or averted, there are important things that individuals, families, and communities can do to lessen the long-term impact of life’s natural tragedies.
As caring believers joined in purpose to see Christ’s body work in the Great Commission, it is vital that we also prepare for the troubles that we will suffer. Urbancrest Baptist Church invites you to attend a series of eight Sunday evening teachings focusing on disasters. While none of us wants to consider the possibility of catastrophe, we owe it to ourselves and to those who cannot care for themselves to learn and prepare for the most difficult times.
On Sunday, January 9th at 6pm, the first class will begin with the introduction of relevant and interesting themes designed to assist individuals in preparing for disasters in our neighborhoods. As the weeks proceed, discussion will reveal the “big picture” of how our nation is affected by natural phenomenon and how Christian believers are having a positive impact by showing mercy and care to the afflicted. Everyone is welcome and urged to join in a dialogue that concerns all of us in a very personal way.
We have provided a quick look at the series below. It is our hope, that as we continue to minister to the lost and hurting in our world, you will begin putting safeguards in place. In helpingeach other now, we will be better ready to come to the aid of others in their time of need.
January 9 ~ Introduction to Disasters: What makes a disaster a disaster?
January 16 ~ Coping in Disaster: The unseen crisis within us
January 23 ~ Winter Storms and Floods: Ohio is in the Zone
February 6 ~ Thunderstorms and Tornadoes: April showers bring May flowers...and insurance agents
February 13 & 20 ~ New Madrid Fault: Look who else is waiting for "the big one"
February 27 ~ Choosing to get Ready: Victim or victor?
March 6 ~ The Good News in Disaster: Serving Christ in crisis
For more information, contact Wanda Lovely at 513-932-4405 or wlovely@urbancrest.org.
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