Harvey Changed Everything

Little did I know what was in store in Houston. I had watched the news about Harvey. I had seen the pictures. I had heard the stories of so many flooded homes. But, it was being there that really touched my heart.

These folks have all sorts of needs. Financial needs. Finding a new home. Patience with FEMA. Wisdom for what's next. Clothes to wear. A car to rent. Food for the next meal. We listened to gut-wrenching stories that broke us.

How Josh and I wished we could provide an answer to the heartaches we heard. Obviously, we couldn't. But, what we could do is love, serve and care for those that we met. We could listen. We could pray. And everyone wanted prayer.

So often in the workplace we try to appear strong and together. We hide what we really feel behind a great appearance. We strive to appear in control. Right?

Not in Houston. Sometimes, things happen that change everything. Harvey changed everything. Harvey reminded me that everyone has spiritual, physical and emotional needs that sooner or later that bubble to the surface. Harvey reminded me that everything changes when we can't control our environment. Harvey reminded me that we're always in need of God, not just when things get tough. Harvey reminded me that you can't always make sense of God's ways, but you can trust His heart.

Today, I encourage you to run to the God who longs to be in relationship with you. He catches every care you cast in His direction. He longs to offload every burden that tears your heart apart. God welcomes every worry you rotate over and over in your mind. God knows your needs better than anyone else on the face of this earth. Whether you're in crises or semi-crises mode or no-crises, God longs for you to run to Him. Stop trying to be self-sufficient and in control. Someday it just won't be enough.

In the midst of Houston's need, there is a terribly beautiful thing going on there. There is more love, tenderness, giving, mercy, and grace being demonstrated like nothing I've seen before. People are loving people here in Houston, irregardless of race, politics, sexuality or faith. In the midst of great need, there is an abundance of love. Harvey changed everything. How will it change you?

"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need." Philippians 4:6

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio. 

(Josh Heaston, Christian Mission Director with the Indianapolis YMCA and Nancy visited the YMCA of Greater Houston from September 10-14, 2017)