What is a disaster? A disaster is any occurrence that causes suffering and creates human needs that cannot be alleviated without help. Disasters can occur at any moment and in any place. Here are ten ways that your church can minister, if disaster strikes your community: Pray for those affected. God can do far more than any of... Continue Reading →
Remembering the Persecuted
Many Christians put their life on the line every day across the globe. As you read this today, Christians continue to be persecuted for their faith in over 40 countries around the world. In many of these lands, it is illegal to own a Bible, share your faith publicly, or teach your children about Jesus. These believers... Continue Reading →
Get Trained
As America watched footage of the devastation in Moore, Oklahoma and the incredible loss in the flooding that swept across Colorado, many people were moved to pack up and be a part of the recovery efforts. As a State Disaster Relief Director, I often get calls from spontaneous volunteers wanting to serve, and it troubles me that I am unable to use these... Continue Reading →
What to Give Someone Who Has Everything
Christmas is a very special time of the year. I love the music, lights and decorations, time with family, baked goodies and gift giving. I really enjoy giving special gifts to those I love. But not just any gift, the perfect one. The one that is just what they needed or really wanted. But... Continue Reading →
Lessons Learned from the Vols
On January 1, 1968, I listened to my first University of Tennessee Vols football broadcast. I will never forget the excitement of the Orange Bowl. The Vols rallied from a 19 to 0 deficit in the second half, behind the incredible play of quarterback, Dewey "Swamp Rat" Warren. This great comeback left Tennessee with the opportunity for a... Continue Reading →
Shepherd God’s Flock
As a young pastor, I wanted to change the world, change the church, and change people's lives. I am now late in my ministry, and have come to realize that I cannot change the world, the church, or people. God is the only one who can change and transform all things. As shepherds of the flock, our... Continue Reading →
I Haven’t Eaten Anything Since Lunch
Coming home late one evening from work, I said to my family, "I haven't eaten anything since lunch and I'm starving". After they laughed at me for such a silly comment, the truth set in. I may have been hungry, but I wasn't starving. To be quite honest, I have never experienced real hunger. But... Continue Reading →
Kilroy was Here
As a boy, I often remember seeing "Kilroy was here" crudely written on interstate overpasses, restroom walls, and desks. This American cultural expression traces its roots back to World War II, when this graffiti began to appear almost anywhere that our troops had passed. Last year, Kentucky Baptists left their mark in the streets of New York... Continue Reading →
Light in the Darkness
Since the year 2000, we have witnessed a multitude of record breaking disasters across the globe. From killer tornadoes to life-shattering earthquakes, from massive tsunamis to mega-storm hurricanes, disasters are dark times of pain and loss. Disaster Relief is neither simple, nor easy. It can be complicated, messy, and difficult. Disaster work can be frustrating and heart-breaking. Through... Continue Reading →
Helping Our Neighbors in Oklahoma
Oklahoma State Disaster Relief Director, Sam Porter, sends this word as they respond to the devastation from massive tornadoes that ripped through Oklahoma: Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief is responding to needs in Oklahoma. I am thankful that Kentucky Baptists are part of the network of Southern Baptists who are doing incredible acts for Christ every day. Your... Continue Reading →