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Death, destruction, and terror accompany us during our lives.  When we view the aftermath of hurricanes, fires, and wars, we often turn away and say, “We are so lucky to live here, or am I happy my family is fine!”  But deep within us, we know other families are not okay, and some will never be found.   

Watching the news after Hurricanes Helene and Milton pounded our nation, I was struck by the resilience of those who lost everything.  When journalists asked victims, “How are you coping?”  Most responded with unwavering faith, “We are suffering, but God will see us through.” 

The hope found in trusting God is the most critical aspect of gaining the courage to live on, even amid tragedy.  Those who are humbled by life events and count on God to help them will rise up stronger, more resilient, and forever thankful.  

Upon reflection, I’ve come to realize that the most profound growth often stems from the most challenging times.  It’s during these moments of brokenness and humility that we gain insights we would never have otherwise.  My faith, for instance, has been profoundly shaped by such experiences.

Those who complain about silly stuff or whine about what they do not have need to be humbled.  You can spot them a mile away.  Their concerns are not for others but for themselves.   

“Humble men are very fortunate!” he told them, “for the Kingdom of Heaven is given to them.  Those who mourn are fortunate!  For they shall be comforted.  The meek and lowly are fortunate, for the world will belong to them.”  Jesus Christ said to his disciples.

He continued, “Happy are those who are kind and merciful, for they shall be shown mercy.  Happy are those who strive for peace—they shall be called the sons of God.”  

Most of us know these words as a few of the Beatitudes found in the New Testament’s Matthew 5.* Christ teaches us that we will rise up to be stronger and wiser when we go so low that the only way up is to trust God.

It is easier to understand hunger if we have gone hungry.  It is easier to comprehend poverty if we have been poor.  And it is easier to be more thankful for having a home if we have lost one.  

Empathy, a gift from God’s kindness, allows us to understand and help others, even when we haven’t experienced their loss ourselves.  Our compassion drives us to reach out and support those in need.  

Humbleness brings thankfulness, and forgiveness brings us peace.  The ability to apologize, atone for our sins, and love sincerely comes from the man who preached on the hill that day outside Galilee.  In the face of adversity, it’s humility that can guide us towards a more peaceful and loving world.   

As we go through our uncertainty of the next few weeks of a contentious campaign,  wars raging in the Middle East and Ukraine, let us not lose the vision of towns that were wiped out and neighbors lost just around the corners of America.   

Even though we may feel lucky, we will lose if we don’t provide aid.  Let’s support and uplift those who believe God will see them through such devastating loss. 

Yes, the election of a President is essential, but the powerful without humility will not inherit the earth.  Only the humble who place their faith in God will win it all. 

After COVID-19 killed so many of our fellow citizens, I was sure that when we were taken so low, humbleness, thankfulness, and kindness would soar if we survived.   I, along with most of you, would agree it did not.   So many became more distrustful, more hateful, divided, and resentful.   

Many of us may be disillusioned with the state of the world.  How low do we need to go before we understand that it’s not how we vote that will save us but our meekness, mercy, and compassion that will?  Didn’t the perfect man on the hill that day explain it all?  

Do we choose to be the peacemakers, or do we spread more conspiracy and distrust?  Do we choose to be kind or hateful?  Are we the meek with God or desire to be powerful without Him? 

We have been tested together as a nation and individually.  Someone is trying to get our attention.  Perhaps we all need to humbly bow, pause, and listen.   

 Please donate to the victims of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.   Your support, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in the lives of those who have lost everything but their faith.

* The Living Bible