The good, the bad, and the very ugly!

All of us at some time during these past few months may have found ourselves watching our Smartphones, iPads, computers, and TV’s with more intention to catch the latest on the devastation of the hurricanes, earthquakes, and firestorms throughout our northern hemisphere. In particular, we continue to be alert to the aftermath of the wildfires in California, the earthquake devastation in Mexico, storms in the Gulf States, Puerto Rico and the other islands in the Atlantic that experienced destruction because of the super-sized hurricanes. We are told that repair and recovery will take months if not years. The financial implications cannot even be calculated.  Also, lest I forget to mention, all who were involved in the Las Vegas horror and those others throughout the world who recently experienced the deadly car bombing in Somalia.

As I pondered these images of death and destruction, I recalled a movie (from the past century -1984), Star Man, starring Jeff Bridges as an “alien” – in human form.  All through the movie, he was pursued by the FBI and by one particular agent.  Upon finally meeting up with each other face to face, there is a scene in which the FBI agent asks the “alien” –“While you have been here, what did you learn about us?”  (And this is what I consider just brilliant!). The "alien" responds, “I learned that when things become at their worst, you become at your best.”  Tah-dah! Get it?  This is a time when things seem to be at their worst – floods, fires, tornadoes, storms, earthquakes, other natural disasters, and “un-natural” disasters of bombings, shootings, etc.,  with people, places, and the environment trying to recover from the effects of so much pain and sorrow around our planet.  As I watch and take in the reports, I am amazed by the courage, compassion,  and determination of the First Responders and neighbors, friends, and passers-by who without hesitancy volunteer to help in any way they can (even while their own property is being burned or washed away.)  But I believe they have a special computer chip, or thread that runs through their inner deep soul structure that says, “WHY NOT! – Why YES, of course.”  So let us remember all who are involved in any way with the good, the bad, and the ugly of how life has unfolded through these disasters.

Let us pray:
PRAYER IN TIME OF DISASTER
Compassionate God, you are ever mindful of your children and hear our prayers when we cry out to you. We are faced with a disaster, a disaster that rattles our bones and sets our nerves on edge. We truly have nowhere to turn but to your loving and provident arms. Listen to our prayers for __________ who are in desperate need for assurance of your presence in their lives at this moment. Inspired by your mercy, may we reach out through acts of kindness and compassion. We ask this in Jesus’ name. (Sisters of St. Francis/Philadelphia)

Our united prayers, grounded in faith, amplify the divine energy surrounding all who are affected, strengthening them to rise above these situations with faith and hope. We affirm that the presence of God is at work in every area of need —providing the people and resources for recovery and rebuilding, uplifting every soul. Let us affirm together for each one: The light of God surrounds you; The love of God enfolds you;The power of God protects you; The presence of God watches over you.Wherever you are, God is!  (UNITY)

“Oh, God, in faith we acknowledge your care over us, your sons, daughters and children. In hope we trust in your divine providence of giving us wisdom and courage as we face the challenges in life. In love we invoke your help and guidance during these difficult days of death and destruction in our dear country.

Our is a prayer of thanksgiving for once again reminding us that ours is an imperfect world, that heaven is not on earth and that nature every now and then tells us not to abuse her. Ours too is a prayer of repentance for calling upon you when we are in need and desperation but forgetting you in favorable times and pleasing occasions. Ours as well is a prayer of petition as we say: Grant eternal peace to those who lost their lives. Embrace the children who died in their innocence. Help those who are hurt and cure those who are sick. Encourage those who suffer the destruction of their homes and properties, and to once again stand up and rebuild their future.

Bless all those who extend their helping hands to those in need of food, shelter and clothing, who share their time, talents and resources with others.
Inspire more people to be men and women for their neighbors, convinced that the more they are for others, the taller they stand before you. Spare us from other natural disasters and devastations if this be according to Your will and for our own spiritual good and growth. Amen."
(Author Unknown)