One of the most beautiful parts of the United States, especially in the autumn, has got to be western North Carolina. With 125 peaks over 5,000 feet in elevation, including Mount Mitchell rising to 6,684 feet, it is no wonder that people love to hike, vacation and live amidst this breathtaking scenery. The areas around the Great Smokies, the Blue Ridge Mountains and other parts of the Appalachians provide the perfect backdrop for countless Christian camps, children’s homes, retreat and conference centers and various ministries.
Teen Valley Ranch, Camp Tekoa, Windy Gap, Cragmont Assembly, Crossnore School and Children’s Home, Black Mountain Home, Broyhill Home, Montreat Conference Center, Community of the Cross, Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center, Billy Graham Training Center at the Cove and Samaritan’s Purse make up just a part of the different denominational and parachurch organizations providing outreach, service and training in the western part of our state.
Since Hurricane Helene made landfall and wreaked havoc across areas of Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, North Carolina and Virginia, over 200 lives have been lost due to the storm. More than half of those have been in North Carolina, where many towns were cut off due to already saturated land, massive amounts of new rainfall and mudslides, plus collapsed roads and bridges.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported that over 40 trillion gallons of rain fell in the Southeast during Hurricane Helene and during the preceding rainfall event in the mountains of N.C., which would fill 60 million Olympic swimming pools.
All of us have a big job ahead. First of all, we continue to pray for and give comfort to the families and friends who have lost loved ones and those who have experienced deep trauma from this storm. We also can pray for those who have faced the horrifying losses of pets, homes, places of business, schools and houses of worship. Secondly, we can donate money and supplies to the many faithful organizations that have been finding ways to get help on the ground to those who need it most. Finally, in the weeks and months to come, we should consider being part of or helping send a clean-up crew, rebuilding team or feeding program.
Tragedies like this tend to bring out the best and the worst in people. Helene can bring out the best in us, as we share generously and remember the words of the Prophet Isaiah and of Jesus.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.” Isaiah 43:1b-3
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27
Local News
Comments / 0