The last two weeks have been a blur.  Many of you may not know that I live in Houston, which is still reeling from hurricane Harvey.  The rainfall we received across the city (30″-40″+) ranged from a 10,000 to a 40,000 year flood. Many homes have just dried out even though the rainfall was two weeks ago.

The loss and devastation have me at a loss for words and blog posts.  While my home was spared by a few feet, I have many friends who were not so lucky, and my heart aches for them.  I strongly believe that Houston will come out on the other side stronger and more bonded than ever before, and I’m sure the other damaged areas of Texas would say the same.  This storm has largely brought out the best in people, and I’m in awe seeing everyone’s generosity, courage, and heart.

It is often overwhelming trying to figure out how to help hurricane victims.  There are so many needs and not enough hours in the day to fill them all.  What I do know is that if everyone pitches in where they can, those needs will be met.

If you have small children like me, it can seem daunting to help at all.  But there is a place for all of us, and here are some ideas for those balancing serving and children:

• Take a meal to a displaced family
• Staff a supply table for a few hours (many flooded neighborhoods have set these up)
• Offer to watch the children of a displaced family for a few hours
• Take sack lunches or Gatorade (or ice cream snacks!) to those cleaning out flooded homes
• Donate supplies and personal items to church collection centers (check their lists as they change frequently)
• Provide a meal or treats to first responders, National Guard, etc.
• Take advantage of free childcare at churches and volunteer while your children are being watched
• Wash laundry or clean other dirty but salvageable items from a flooded home
• Pray for the flood victims

Flood victims are under so much stress and facing countless decisions, so offering specific help (washing laundry, packing up belongings tomorrow, etc.) is often more helpful than just asking, “How can I help?” And if there isn’t anything you can help with today, that doesn’t mean there won’t be something they need help with next week.

Serve with Your Talents

I believe God has given us each unique talents and skill sets, and those are just as important – if not more so – during times of crisis.  It’s OK to say “no” to volunteer opportunities in order to focus on where you can be most effective. None of us can do it all.  Focus on using your talents to serve in the best way possible, and we can truly be the hands and feet of God.

My heart goes out to Florida and the recovery they have ahead of them after hurricane Irma. We’re all in this together.

Isaiah 43:2 – “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.  When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”

Psalm 57:1 – “I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed”