Recent coverage of the earthquake in Haiti brings to light many problems associated with trying to save people and restore some sense of order. These stories touch our hearts and we yearn to help those who have suffered. There are opportunities to support the relief efforts through donations, but we can also trust prayer as an effective help.

In times of need, people of all faiths have found prayer to be a powerful healing response. After a disaster, individuals have often shared how they felt comforted by prayer from those around the world.

Those who find the Bible to be a source of inspiration often find comfort in favorite passages. In Scripture, one can find verses that are very reassuring during trials and tribulations. Verses like, “Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither by thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Joshua 1:9) Or, “Fear thou not; for I am with thee; be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” (Isaiah 41:10). There are many sites on the Internet that can direct people in helping the earthquake victims. One church site I have found very helpful from a prayerful standpoint is tmcyouth.com.

It is currently hosting a prayer watch called “Help for Haiti” where people share their experiences of how they found guidance and help during a disaster through reliance on prayer.

Prayer helps us face fear in any situation and provides the sense of calm that allows us to move forward. In the book of Acts (27:15-44) we read the story of St. Paul who found himself in a severe storm resulting in a shipwreck on a remote island while en route to Rome.

The ship was caught in a tempest for several days. The crew tossed cargo, supplies, and even its gear overboard to lighten the load. Fear was running rampant, yet in the midst of all the chaos and confusion, Paul took time to pray and received an answer of peace: a calm trust that God was present and would protect everyone on the ship. Paul was so convinced of this angel message, he could say to those on board, “sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God.” The result was the breaking up of the ship but with no loss of life.

All were welcomed on shore by natives who built a fire to warm them. Picking up a log for the fire, a viper fastened onto Paul’s hand, but still calm and confident in his prayers, he shook off the beast and felt no harm.

The men continued to be cared for and later arrived safely in Rome.

No matter what the event, at home or across the globe, we can trust prayer to guide and guard all involved to a solution for the problem.

 

Terry Homan is the librarian at the Christian Science Reading Room in the Creekside Plaza.