Chasing Hurricanes

Waiting on Ike

Among the news stories that have captured our attention most recently, there is the constant news segment that appears and introduces us to the 'next' hurricane that is headed toward the US. It is my pleasure to introduce you to "Hurricane Ike."

At the invitation of the US Department of Health and Human Services, I have deployed to Florida as part of a Disaster Medical Assistance Team. We are awaiting yet another storm. A portion of the team has been in place here for more than a week. They originally came to prepare for any damage created by Gustav.

Our team, NC-1, is comprised of a host of medical professionals, logistical folks, and a chaplain. Our mission is to go into damaged areas and set up a field hospital to provide care for the residents. Team members have day jobs and have a passion for using their skills to help others when natural disasters strike. Because of the pending threat, teams from other states are also staging here waiting for the storm.

On Sunday, I led a worship service in the hotel conference room. This was a great experience. It was a diverse group of Jesus-followers who came from several states across the US. We had a time of sharing, praying and we celebrated the Lord's Supper. I'm grateful to all those who shared their gifts of music, words and presence.

We're waiting. That's what we do, until we have an opportunity to serve.