An earthquake just hit Colombia, as did one in Japan a few days earlier and one in Venezuela just months ago. Floods ravaged some of the same hill country towns that were devastated just last summer, and at this time of year, we all tend to watch the Atlantic basin for signs of tropical storms and hurricanes. When those tragic disasters occur, how do we help?

Our first response is to partner with Texans on Mission, a function of our state partnership with like-minded churches. In disaster, territoriality has no place. They work alongside the Salvation Army, FEMA, and a variety of other teams to do mud-out work on flooded homes, send chainsaw teams to deal with downed trees, and offer counseling services to those devastated by the disasters. We support them monthly, but when something happens and people want to give to bring the fastest and most reliable help, that’s where those funds are channeled.

If you want to get involved directly to be part of their teams, check out their website. I met with their director, Rand Jenkins, this week to hear what’s happening with the latest flooding. I chatted with Bruce Coleman about his work with the Salvation Army disaster relief teams. And everywhere you see this kind of tragedy, these teams are already equipped, trained, and ready to step into the fray and offer relief and comfort.

We have always had individuals who participated with Texans on Mission, but some of those have now aged out of the ability to do that kind of work. Are YOU the ones God would send in their footsteps? For more info, check out their website and pray about how you can prepare to be the helper that people need during the next crisis that strikes.