Protection from the Storm

Are you prepared for disaster? Tragedy will occur regardless of your answer to that question. This morning, thousands of people mourn only the loss of stuff instead of life because they knew how to respond quickly in an emergency.

My oldest daughter attends Union University in Jackson Tennessee. For those of you who may not have heard the news, Union made national headlines because a massive tornado destroyed most of the colleges’ dormitories. In 35 seconds the world changed for a lot of people.

Alicia and all of her friends are ok. If you see the pictures, it’s amazing to know that not one person died…only nine students were hospitalized over night. Thirteen students were trapped in the rubble and waited up to four hours to be rescued. The women’s’ dorms are totally destroyed, as are many of the boy’s dorms. The main classroom building on campus lost its roof. Cars are stacked up like dominoes. Not a single building on campus was unscathed. The campus president praised God and stated that the students’ quick response and close adherence to emergency preparedness plans probably saved more than a thousand lives.

The verse that keeps coming to mind in the midst of this trial is Deuteronomy 31:6,

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified …, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (NIV)

There are thousands of people who have been impacted by these horrible storms. At least fifty-five people lost their lives – thousands have lost their homes and their livelihoods. The stories of quick action that saved lives continue to roll in.

What disasters are typical in your area? Are you at risk for tornado, fire, hurricane, earthquake, extended power outage, flooding, or something else? As in most other disasters in the past decade, those who have a plan tend to be more successful at surviving the crisis and rebounding most quickly in the destruction that remains. Here are a few things you can do to prepare:

1. Have an emergency fund. Expect that bad things will happen, and set aside three to six months of living expenses in a separate account that can be readily accessed if needed.

2. Practice disaster drills. Make sure all members of your household know exactly what to do in any crisis that might be expected in your area. Practice over and over so they know how to respond in their sleep. In fact, plan a drill for the middle of the night so you are sure! Establish a meeting place and a plan in the event the disaster occurs while your family is separated at work, school, etc.

3. Set aside emergency supplies. Many people in California have ‘earthquake cans’ – trashcans filled with bottled water, blankets, non-perishable food, and first aid supplies. These are placed in a location outside of the house for easy retrieval. Others keep supplies in the basement in the event of tornadoes.

4. Be sure that important papers are retrievable. Many of those hit by tornadoes are not able to find purses or filing cabinets full of information. Keep copies of credit card numbers, financial account information, birth certificates, and other key items in a location outside of your home…a safe deposit box or a relative’s home. Keep a fireproof safe in your home for the originals.

5. Talk about your plan. Every time you hear of a disaster in the news, talk with your family about what you would do if that should occur at your home. Know where you would go if you were unable to live in your home. Pray for those who have lost their families and homes.

6. Be prepared for eternity. Many of those who died had little time to change their minds about God’s salvation. Ask God to clear any doubts that you have and talk with those who can help you understand how to give your life to Christ. As the saying goes, ‘those who put it off until the eleventh hour often die at 10:59.’ Please don’t wait!

Act quickly. In an emergency, don’t take time to decide if you should respond. Take action first… and pray continually. It’s ok to feel foolish (and grateful) if nothing disastrous occurs. Your plan to protect yourself and your family may make the difference between life and death. Pray with your family that you will be prepared in an emergency. Pray that you will be strong and courageous, and regardless of the damage, know God will never leave or forsake you.