Joplin

Kevin grew up in the Joplin area.  We both graduated from college in Joplin.  Together we made our first home in Joplin.  We have family in Joplin or in the area as well as many friends.  Despite where we live, we will always be a part of the Joplin.

Our first home (it had been a duplex)

As the images of destruction rolled in Sunday night and Monday morning our hearts broke for the people of Joplin.  We were glued to the news, waiting, listening and praying.  We talked, we prayed, we cried.  Then we decided to go and serve and be a blessing.   I think in the end we were the ones who were blessed.

We went to our old church, College Heights Christian to serve.  We were absolutely blown away at how well they implemented their disaster relief program in such a short time.  Every day since the destruction CHCC has had 1500-2000 volunteers coming through their doors to help serve.  It is such a blessing to see the community of Christ surround the people of Joplin.  There were families, youth groups, churches and just individuals coming to serve from all around the nation.  On top of the volunteers there are also 1500+ people a day affected by the tornado coming through the doors for help and support.

Kevin and I didn't care where they plugged us in the help.  We just wanted to help.  One morning we canvased a neighborhood with cases of water.  We went door to door making sure people had drinking water, due to the boil order.  We met many people and heard many stories.  The rest of the time we were the information desk at CHCC.  We evaluated needs, directed people, gave information, and most importantly listened to their stories.  The days were long and overwhelming emotionally, but we left praying that we made a tiny dent in such a great need.

Sunday morning we attended early service at CHCC.  We knew it could potentially be an emotional service, since this was the first worship service since the tornado.  However, I think we were both unprepared for our own emotions. After seeing the destruction up-close and in person (pictures do not do it justice), and listening to the stories of people, the words of familiar songs have taken on a new meaning.  "Blessed be Your Name"   "In Christ Alone", "It is Well with My Soul", "You're the God of this City".  I don't think there was a dry eye in the service.

Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ. Philippians 3:8 

Praying for Joplin