Hurricane Ike Has Hit

It is now 3:00 a.m. I sit in my niece's home in Tyler, Texas watching the streaming internet broadcast from KFDM out of Beaumont. I have no idea what is happening at my home in Bridge City nor my office at St. John Lutheran Church in Nederland.
I am specifically worried about flooding in the B.C. area. I am also feeling a sadness. I have heard that some folks that decided to stay in the area are now suffering. One email received at KFDM is from a family that needs rescue from 4 ft. of water in their home.
It truly makes me think about story of Noah. Noah told people that the rain was coming. Some even doubted him and probably laughed at his preparations. But, you know the worst part of that whole story is the fact that Genesis 7:16 tells us, Noah and his family and all the animals went into the ark..."then God shut the door behind him." I don't think Noah could have done that to anyone begging to get on board, but I don't think God did either. I actually don't think anyone thought it would rain at all. But had the door been opened, it would have flooded the ark and the future would have been lost.
As I sit in my comfortable shelter, I feel terrible for those who thought they would "ride it out." My prayers are with them and I know God loves them dearly.

Some ramblings!

In the midst of this sorrow, I also find comfort in having recently read the book, The Shack.

Tragedies come in varies forms and to various degrees. The loss of property can be heart breaking, but it can be overcome. The loss of life however, is pain nearly beyond our capacity. If you have not read The Shack, I highly recommend you do so. Ironically, I have heard the majority of theologians who have loved it and a few others who think it is a heresy. Personally I thought it was wonderful. Hmmm... but you need to decide. Don't rent your opinion from someone else. Yes, we pastors try to lead in the right direction, but occasionally we disagree. Everyone I know who has read the book loved it. In fact, one said it was life changing. WOW! Life Changing! Isn't that what evangelism is about... getting individuals into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ?
No, it is not always absolutely perfect theology, but I have numerous books on my shelves that fit that bill and no one, other than another preacher, will ever read them! Thus, The Shack, has accomplished an important goal... it allows someone to read a story and find God's grace, healing, and restoration. While the story is fiction, it is a beautiful, and at times funny, portrait of who God can be and why we are here on this planet. Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy!

Take care and get out of the wind!