“At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem in a ministry to the saints; for Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to share their resources with the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. They were pleased to do this.” (Romans 15:25-27)
The devastation from the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria yesterday could cause up to 10,000 fatalities and many more injured. Initial damages could result in one billion dollars in loss. Many people in the war-ravaged area of the earthquake were suffering from not having enough before this natural disaster.
Paul wrote to the Romans that before he visited them, he had to go to Jerusalem to take the money he had collected in what is today Macedonia and Greece to help the poor in Jerusalem. Christians have been helping others across international boundaries since the beginning. What can we do? First, we can pray for the victims and those helping. Second, we can give. The United Methodist Committee on Relief will be working to help the people in that region through their international connections there. To give online go to umcmission.org/advance-project/982450/ or you may give through the church to UMCOR by writing “Earthquake” on your check or when you give online at firstsrq.com, click give. Thank you for helping others.
Dr. Sam
