“But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)
Everything around and beneath my house quaked as the Chinook military helicopters flew overhead. There is no telling which area they were heading to seeing that airlifts and drops are happening during every possible daylight hour in an effort to preserve life. I walked outside and watched as they flew northeast; a sign of hope yet heartwrenching at once. They came and went many times, into the dark of night…To each soldier: Thank you for serving. Thank you for showing up. Thank you for being boots on the ground for those who cannot fend for themselves in the mountains. Putting all pride aside, know these folks are eternally grateful for your efforts!
There are also “other” boots on the ground working to preserve life: The hikers. The outdoorsmen and women. The outpouring of service by groups and individuals volunteering in this situation has been nothing short of incredible! With them they bring backpacks full of needed supplies to people who are stranded. ATV’s that can be used to take generators and heavier items up and the injured and ill down, to get medical attention; to be put to use pulling and relocating what needs to be moved. And, even, mule caravans carrying supplies up and people down.
When you feel helpless, pray and serve
I was supposed to be on vacation from work when all hell broke loose where I live so postponed my time off for two reasons: I could not get to where I had reserved to stay in WNC. I also felt guilty about taking a vacation during this time when so many are in need. I stayed in town, went to work trying to help from the “ground” (and returned to my job, albeit halfheartedly), and prayed a lot!
My heart is broken, my mind is numb, and my body is spent – yet, all I yearn to do is help.
To serve.
To be His hands and feet.
Boots on the ground.
Not only by sharing needs online or donating items but by going in…
Trust that if I were more sure-footed right now, all of my years of solo hiking – through all weather, terrain, and especially these mountains – would be put to use. I am so touched and thrilled to see hikers putting this SKILL to use right now! It hurts not to be one of them.
Not being boots on the ground.
But The Father’s will over mine be done! I know any effort to give people a little comfort and things they need is appreciated by all, regardless of how it arrives. Remember brothers and sisters, or even fellow citizens, our lives have purpose beyond our “selves”!
‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ (Matthew 25:40)
“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35)
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10)
