Metro Detroit, MI
Nov. 2 - 6, 2021
In Response to Flooding
Our Calvary Relief Disaster Response team deployed back to Metro Detroit (Dearborn) in November in response to major flooding that occurred there. June was one of Detroit's wettest months on record, coupled with heavy rains causing mass flooding in the area. Then again in mid July, was hit again by more heavy rains causing additional flooding to homes already damaged by the first flood. Each day more and more work orders and requests came in for help. There was still such a great need and so many hurting people. We had the privilege of going there to share the hope and love of Jesus.
Our team of ten set out to serve and were blessed beyond measure in return. We had the privilege of being used by God showing His love and hope to those desperately in need. God sent us in answer of prayer - one elderly lady had recently lost her husband of 63 years and had been desperately crying out to the Lord for help for the last 10 months. She was so despondent a few weeks ago, that she had planned to take her life - when she went for her gun, it was gone and then she realized that God wanted her to live. She just kept praying. When the Samaritan's Purse drove up and she saw the inscription 'Helping in Jesus' Name' on the back of the truck, she literally collapsed in tears thanking God for hearing her prayers. She didn't even know who Samaritan's Purse was or who had sent them - all she knew was that God heard her prayers and it was a miracle we were there.
Another elderly lady who lived alone had tried to get help from other sources but no one showed up - when we showed up to help her, she couldn't thank us enough. And this other lady had boxes to the ceiling, filled with collectibles, in her basement soaked from flooding since July - we were able to show her in a tangible way that God loved her and by the end of the second day (and 900+ trash bags filled), she said she accepted Jesus.
So much happens in one of these weeks it's hard to explain - that's why it's so wonderful being able to share these experiences with each other on our team. The bond and friendship of serving together is another amazing blessing.
As these horrific events of flooding, tornadoes, hurricanes, fires, pandemics, etc. keep happening in our world, God uses these times to bring people closer to Him and gives us the opportunity to serve and share His good news. Romans 8:28 tells us:
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose".