“Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.” -1 Timothy 6:18
Hurricane Helene has caused untold devastation across the Southeast United States. Helene made landfall in Florida, which brought strong wind, a large storm surge, and significant rainfall across parts of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The initial storm and the flooding that resulted from Hurricane Helene resulted in the death of 232 people, with over one hundred still unaccounted for. Search and rescue operations are still underway as another hurricane has formed in the Gulf of Mexico. I hope you are praying for the people in the path of these storms.
Jessica Beebe and Will Landacre were scheduled to be married on September 27 in Independence, Virginia. The rains from Helene caused flooding in this community. At first, Jessica and Will thought they might need to postpone their wedding for a day or two. As they began to realize the damage, Jessica and Will knew they would need to cancel their special day.
The flooding in Independence destroyed homes, businesses, and hotels. Jessica and Will knew they would get married soon but also knew they needed to help their community. They let their guests know the wedding was off. They quickly asked their wedding coordinator for help distributing the food they had for guests.
Will and Jessica set up a table in a local grocery store, and their wedding coordinator helped put the word out to those in need. They were able to feed several families who had lost their homes. They hope their actions will inspire others to keep working to help their community rebuild.
Hurricanes, tornados, flooding, and other disasters are a part of life. The devastation and loss of life we have witnessed is terrible. When we experience disasters, it is our response that matters. Our willingness to give our time, resources, and efforts can make a difference. When we are willing to respond to the needs of others, despite how it may challenge us, we become a blessing in the midst of a tragedy.
The meal Jessica and Will served in the grocery store’s parking lot was not an all-you-can-eat buffet. However, it made a big difference in the lives of the people who gathered that day to receive food and love from this young couple. It is a beautiful reminder that our generosity is needed to bring hope to the world.
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
