Bad News

Bad

Sometimes it seems like things are going rough.  Even with the report that economy grew in the first quarter, "signs of mounting problems for the U.S. economy are everywhere."  

Prices for fuel are up (a fill-up cost me $25 at the pump three years ago but now costs me $46).  Prices for food are up.

Things may be more expensive for me - but God has met all of my needs.

It could be much worse.  In the US, we're only limited to 200 pounds of rice per visit to a grocery store!

Worse

12000 people are still buried in rubble following an earthquake in China - 72 hours after it struck and the death toll could rise to 50000.

In Myanmar,  "the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies estimated the death toll was between 68,833 and 127,990. The U.N. says more than 100,000 may have died.

"The U.N. and the Red Cross say between 1.6 and 2.5 million people are in urgent need of food, water and shelter. Only 270,000 have been reached so far by the aid groups."

But direct military flights cannot be made to the people - because the government of Myanmar will not allow it.

Reaction

So how are we to react to such horrible news?  Some ignore it; others complain.  Some people even turn to video games. (Side note: I'm not saying all video games are escaping bad news - but when the choice forced by lack of money is video games or food and someone has to think about it (like from the article: "I'd probably give up my cellphone," he said. "Probably not food. That's really tough. I like food.")

I find that there are only two ways to react: pray and help when able.  Donation sites are already set up for the China Earthquake, but financial aid is not everything, nor the most important thing.  I do not worry about what I will eat, drink, sleep or wear.  Not because I am loaded with resources (though I am not lacking either) but because I have a Heavenly Father who knows I need such things. 

33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. - Matthew 6:33-34

The best way to help is to make sure that people have heard about Jesus before the bad news.  If the bad news happens first, take care of the immediate need as well as sharing the love of God with them.  One without the other will not be truly loving a neighbor.