Sunday, June 19, 2011

For Journaling Purposes....

I have been avoiding this post for 4 weeks now. It's difficult to write about because it hits so close to my heart. I am writing mostly because this blog is our family journal and we want to remember how blessed we are and remember this experience.

On Sunday, May 22, 2011, a devastating F-5 tornado touched down in Joplin, Missouri. Joplin is a town that Doctor knows and loves. He has lived and worked there for several months over the last 3 years. In fact, he lived there the entire month of April. Three weeks after packing up and leaving the town for the last time, the tornado hit. Doctor was working at an Emergency Room in a neighboring town when he learned of the tornado and was unable to leave. He felt so helpless and had such a desire to go down and help. By the time he was able, they were asking that physicians no longer self-deploy. The stories from friends are heartbreaking. Yet, for every heartache there is a story that is equally uplifting. The damage was horrifying and extensive, and at the same time stories of hope and love of neighbor abound.

I am so grateful for a loving Father in Heaven and for the safety of all we know and love. I pray for those who are suffering through the loss of loved ones and possessions. I hope and pray for a new Joplin, forever changed, but hopefully stronger.

Here is a beautiful video about the Joplin tornado that will hopefully remind you of God's love for all His children.

1 comment:

Debbie said...

Christmas, I just wanted to send you a note and introduce myself. My husband is Richard and is currently doing his fellowship here in Indianapolis. We've enjoyed having Brian over and getting to know him. Richard has really enjoyed working with him and can't say enough good things about him. You have a beautiful family! I've enjoyed reading your blog! Safe travels home!