iBelin

I Hope the #NashvilleFlood…

// May 6th, 2010 // 2 Comments » // Nashville

I hope the #NashvilleFlood helps us to embrace and celebrate our diversity
I hope the #NashvilleFlood reveals our real strength
I hope the #NashvilleFlood makes Nashville soil richer
I hope the #NashvilleFlood brings people of all religious faiths together
I hope the #NashvilleFlood washed away hatred
I hope the #NashvilleFlood washed away homophobia
I hope the #NashvilleFlood washed away barriers to community
I hope the #NashvilleFlood washed away religious bigotry

I hope the #NashvilleFlood washed away prejudice
I hope the #NashvilleFlood washed away racism
I hope the #NashvilleFlood washed away biases
I hope the #NashvilleFlood washed away fear of one (an)other
I hope the #NashvilleFlood washed away apathy

I hope the #NashvilleFlood teaches us to hold on
I hope the #NashvilleFlood washed away divisions
I hope the #NashvilleFlood washed away color-ism
I hope the #NashvilleFlood washed away stinginess
I hope the #NashvilleFlood makes us deeply appreciate Nashville
I hope the #NashvilleFlood makes us less dependent on things
I hope the #NashvilleFlood makes us even more grateful
I hope the #NashvilleFlood teaches us the value of simplicity
I hope the #NashvilleFlood shows us that what unites us is greater than what divides us
I hope the #NashvilleFlood teaches us that memories are precious

I hope the #NashvilleFlood teaches us to keep a song in our hearts
I hope the #NashvilleFlood teaches us to share
I hope the #NashvilleFlood teaches us that when one suffers we all suffer
I hope the #NashvilleFlood teaches us to help bear each others burdens
I hope the #NashvilleFlood shows us how to sacrifice for one another
I hope the #NashvilleFlood……

Add your hopes in the comment section below….

Nashville Flood 2010

// May 4th, 2010 // 2 Comments » // Nashville

Here’s the deal:

Nashville has experienced what experts are calling a “500 year flood.” The flood is of epic proportions. The Cumberland River which flows through the city crested at over 50 feet.

I am grateful to God that neither our church facility nor my home suffered any damage. I had some water in my unfinished basement which is comparatively insignificant.

It is confirmed that 19 people died from flood related incidents. Among the dead is Mr. Robert Woods 74, father of a high school classmate. Mr. Woods was well-known in his community and was a source of wisdom and strength for children and youth in his neighborhood. Of course, each of those whom Nashville has lost to the flood has their own stories and significance and relationships, but the entire community is diminished by losing them.

Over 20,000 people in Nashville and surrounding areas are without power. There are people still trapped in their homes while others are unable to return to their homes to try to see what belongings can be saved.

We are not sure yet just how many thousands of people have lost their homes. Many are salvaging what they can from their homes and surviving by living with family, friends or in shelters throughout the city.

There are serious concerns about water. One of our treatment plants has been flooded and the other just missed by one foot. In cities around Nashville, residents have been instructed to boil water before drinking.

It is estimated that 90% of persons whose homes have been damaged are without flood insurance. President Obama has approved federal disaster assistance, but it will be communities of faiths that will provide assistance in rebuilding lives and restoring hope. These Nashvillians desperately need our help! Additionally, we are aware of several church buildings damaged to the extent that it is not possible to worship inside.

What can you do to help? PRAY for the people of Middle Tennessee and give MONEY! It is our mission to meet the emergent needs of our community. We have to be Christ for people who are suffering by providing for their needs.

Here is how your money will be used:

• to help families with immediate, pressing needs
• to feed hungry families and volunteers
• to buy and distribute drinking water
• to help repair churches damaged by the flood

Click here to go to Kairos Community AME Church website and click the “DONATE”! button. Your contribution will make a difference.

Follow what’s going on in Nashville on Twitter by following these hashtags: #nashvilleflood and #othersituation2010