As I write this article, many are focused on what is happening with our nation’s tallest dam in Oroville, Calif. More than 100,000 people (some news agencies reporting even 200,000) were told to evacuate from areas near the Oroville Dam in Northern California. Officials feared an emergency spillway could fail, sending huge amounts of water into the Feather River, and other waterways which would have a profound and devastating impact on multiple communities.
With the first evacuation ordered, people had to get out of town. The roadways were a mess. My heart was heavy thinking about many great friends who were in the throes of this impending danger. We were staying in communication with them, watching and praying.
And, then I noticed something. I noticed not once or twice but over and over again an outpouring of compassion from the greater surrounding areas as people opened their homes to those who had to flee theirs. I saw people begin to network with places housing people (like churches) to bring in additional items like blankets or clothes those who left in such a hurry needed.
For a moment people weren’t fighting about politics and they weren’t debating about executive orders. They weren’t marching and protesting, either. An entire region of people no longer focused on what divides them, but rather focused on what they can do to love and serve one another. What one valued or believed to be “true” wasn’t the focus — but rather, the person in need was the focus of their attention.
Have we lost sight of what Jesus said about loving our neighbors? Or even loving our enemies? Do we hide behind the “submit” button of our social media outlets only to tell off those we disagree with? Have we lost how to fulfill the Great Commission in the spirit of the Great Commandment? Does it take tragedy to awaken the people of God to be the people of God who are on mission with him in our everyday lives?
I don’t know what will continue to happen with this situation in Northern California but I do know we, as disciples of Christ today, need to focus on three things.
First, repentance. Have you failed to genuinely love your “neighbor” and be a true conduit of God’s grace and redemption just because they differ so much from you? If so, then seek forgiveness — both of God and of man.
Second, restoration. For each of us this will look differently — and I believe that’s on purpose — but whatever it is that moves you to respond with compassion, then use that as your fuel to restore the brokenness found in failure. Live a life that will connect others with God’s heart to redeem and restore all things unto himself.
And third, respond. Do something. Don’t just post something on social media. Don’t just call your neighbors to tell them what you think. Go and serve. As you go and meet the need, do so in the mighty name of Jesus. We do this, in love and in grace, so God will be glorified and those who see our actions and efforts will praise our heavenly father.
With more weather expected in the Northern California region, the need for great compassion will continue. And yet regardless of what happens there, we need to respond to loving others and pointing them to Jesus in each opportunity God has placed within our reach.
Nick Emery is the senior pastor at Good Shepherd Wesleyan Church. He can be reached at pastornick@gswc.org.