Our Refuge and Strength

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea." Ps. 46:1-2

This week has been a mixture of trial and blessing for the people of our community. We have continued with the Basic Seminar, and many have a new vision of what God could do through them as they learned how to live in freedom from sin in their daily Christian walk. The number jumped from 16 the first session to almost 30 registered and attending the sessions. Among these are several who are depending on God to be their strength as they apply newfound Scriptural principles to their lives.

We did feel a light earthquake here on Tuesday, which was just enough to be uncomfortable -- we can hardly imagine the utter devastation that took place in Haiti about that same time. We have many Haitians here in our community, some of which attend our church and are taking advantage of every opportunity to grow in Christ. Many have not heard from their families, and are going through a very difficult time just not knowing. What a blessing it is for them to have GOD as their refuge and strength! Throughout the week, the Dominicans and Haitians have become closer, putting aside the racial and historical differences and conflicts. Many Dominicans now speak of the Haitians as their "neighbors," and instead of emphasizing the differences speak of the island of Hispaniola as a whole belonging to all of them, making them "one."

Please pray for the continued efforts of many to help the Haitians, and for the many people who still know nothing of their family, that God would give His strength to them at this time, and that many would seek refuge in Him.