Despite the great outpouring of compassion and assistance for those affected by the various hurricanes in the United States lately it is a bit distressing to not see much in the way of churches helping with the earthquake relief for the many thousands hurt or killed in Pakistan.

It’s understandable that what gets the greatest media attention and is closest to home generates the most response. I guess it is the “squeaky wheel gets the oil” syndrome. Nevertheless, the earthquake in Pakistan and neighboring India is one of the worst in modern times and the need is great. Gospel for Asia focuses much of their missionary efforts there, so they have certainly been involved, just as they have been for the Tsunami that hit Asia last year. You can read about GFA and especially the medical aid they have brought to the needed areas here.

Of course there will always be a need to help with those affected by natural disasters or the everyday pressing needs of hunger, AIDS and poverty. Our links page has a whole section targeting agencies, organizations and churches helping those in need. More here.

When families are hurt by circumstance and strained relationships it can be very difficult for healing to occur. Often it comes from an outside situation that pulls together family members. A new movie coming out, “Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story”, is gathering positive critical momentum in advance of its release. A strong cast that includes Kurt Russell, Dakota Fanning and Kris Kristofferson coupled with an inspiring story of a dream to rehabilitate a damaged race horse is the background to a tale of family hope and reconciliation. The father, for the love of his daughter, sacrifices almost everything.

How much are we willing to sacrifice for our dreams…or the dreams of our children? You can find out more about this movie at Hollywood Jesus.

The news of the devastating earthquake in India comes right on the heels of the hurricanes in the Gulf Coast. Does it seem like we are having natural disasters with increasing frequency? The “end of the world” naysayers would have us believe so. In reality, there have been ongoing disasters of this kind – and worse – all though history. Today’s media and technology make the information available to us in ways we didn’t use to have. I think it’s very dangerous for us to assume that these are all “signs” of God’s displeasure and that the end of the world is near.

What we can do with each of these instances is recognize the opportunity to change our ways and to help however we can.

The 12 step programs modeled on Alcoholics Anonymous show us that the way to change the world around us is to change ourselves. We can’t do it on our own power. We need God (a higher power) and others. By the way, there are some very good articles on 12 step spirituality and the connection to Christian teaching on Dick B.’s blog – here.

John Fischer is one of my favorite authors. He’s got a great sense of humor, he understands today’s “Christian” environment and is willing to point out what’s wrong with it – much like the Old Testament prophets, although I’m sure he’d despise being labeled as such.

He’s got a new book out: Confessions of a Caffeinated Christian: Wide-Awake and Not Alone. It’s a collection of personal stories and his sometimes bumbling attempts to follow Jesus and live an authentic life of faith. You can purchase it through our online store here.

I’ve reviewed a couple of John’s other books, Finding God Where You Least Expect Him and Fearless Faith.

Living an authentic life of faith is not easy, but with John’s inspiration perhaps you’ll find some motivation to keep on trying.

Tom Gilbert