Yesterday afternoon, our Mayor and City Council declared a state of emergency in Brandon due to overland flooding. The state of emergency has also been declared in many other Regional Municipalities in South Western Manitoba. While the Mayor declared the state of emergency, it is the work behind the scenes that has brought about this decision. Brandon is honoured to have an Emergency and Disaster person who really really knows his stuff. But the Mayor and City Council must listen to the Emergency and Disaster person’s thoughts and research.
With the state of emergency also comes the “thoughts from across Canada”. Some are helpful and offer to continue prayers for those who are evacuating their homes or for emergency personal that they may be safe in their work. Yet there are many more opinions that are hurtful. Opinions that state this overland flooding happened due to oil companies pulling up oil from the ground and this is God’s vengeance upon the oil companies. Or hurtful opinions such as the overland flooding is God’s vengeance for communities having a Pride Parade. Goodness. Where did these people get their theology? Where do these people carry so much hatred? Do they not know that God is a loving God and does not bring vengeance down upon a community or a generation? Rather than making spiteful comments, wouldn’t it be better if these people prayed to God for the safety of all in each overland flooded community?
Great God, we ask You this day to keep those people safe who are working in disaster areas. Comfort those who are loosing their homes. Bring peace into those who are farmers and see their crops under water and have no insurance. Divine Healer, inspire each of us today to help those who need help and to bring Your love into their lives when all seems dismal and helpless. This we ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.
