Derecho
Matthew 5:38-48
According to Wikipedia, “Derecho is a widespread, long-lived, straight-line windstorm associated with a fast-moving band of severe thunderstorms.” I’ve never heard the word before and prefer to never hear or experience a “Derecho” again. If you want a story, ask virtually anyone in our area: “How long did you go without power?”
Over the first few days, I saw examples of a crisis bringing out the worst in people. There were reports of fighting over generators at hardware stores as well as long lines and arguments at gas stations. I walked into a grocery store while one of the workers was bringing out a shopping cart full of bottled water. One man grabbed the entire cart in front of the waiting crowd and callously took it to the checkout register.
But I also heard about the dedication and hard work of utility workers, city employees and volunteers who worked long hours in extreme heat under difficult and dangerous circumstances. There were pastors and churches that delivered water, offered showers, opened their buildings as cooling stations and checked up on the elderly. A wedding was held at a church with no power: hot, dark but still beautiful. A get-together was hosted by several families for their church rather than letting the food spoil.
Jesus said: “If a soldier demands you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles. Give to those who ask, and don’t turn away from those who want to borrow.” (M. 5:41-42)
Carrying two miles is beyond the norm and displays to others a "can do" spirit that stands out in a crowd. Being a follower of God is never promised to be easy. At times of crisis the road can be slippery, unclear, and treacherous. Jesus never walked an easy road. The early disciples faced a “Derecho” of difficulties, yet they continued, and lives were changed, churches formed, and ministries begun. Charles Tindley wrote: “When the storms of life are raging, stand by me. When the world is tossing me, like a ship upon the sea, thou who rules wind and water, stand by me.”
Clarissa Estes wrote: “Refuse to fall down. If you cannot refuse to fall down, refuse to stay down. If you cannot refuse to stay down, lift your heart toward heaven and like a hungry beggar, ask that it be filled, and it will be filled. You may be pushed down. You may be kept from rising. But no one can keep you from lifting your heart toward heaven — only you. It is in the midst of misery that so much becomes clear.”
During a “Derecho,” remember the God who will always be there to stand by you. Strengthen your resolve, travel the extra mile and in the midst of crisis, lift your heart toward heaven and refuse to fall down.
Prayer Challenge: Help me Lord be someone with more of a “can do” spirit.