The bushfires

Much of the life and endeavour of the church can be explained in 3 main groups

• Worship to God
• Encouraging and discipling the believers
• Proclaiming the Gospel in the world.

These principles are essential, and it is right and good that we continually focus our attention on them.

However, every so often something occurs in our world of such impact and significance, that although our hearts remain focused on our Lord, they weep and strain for what people around us are suffering. 9/11 in New York, the Indonesian Tsunami, refugee in Darfur etc...

Here in Australia in the state of Victoria, bushfires have destroyed over 700 homes, 181 people are confirmed dead and it is likely that the final death count will be in excess of 300 people. Entire towns have been destroyed, with people's hopes, dream, livelihoods and families laying on the ground as ashes in the dust. Horrible and terrible are words used to describe many mild things but they are appropriate today. Language - even the beauty and height of the English language - cannot help articulate what our minds cannot comprehend.

So our thoughts and prayers are with the suffering, the lost, the hurt, the devastated of Victoria whose lives will never be the same, and we pray hope, peace, repair, healing and safety for each person. And we call on Christians everywhere to show grace, compassion, care, love and openness to any who need us.

Here are a few links to sites where you can donate or get involved to assist the recovery effort
www.redcross.org.au
www.salvos.org.au