Recently Jamaica experienced a historic natural disaster by a Category 5 hurricane called Melissa. Early reports indicated that residential and commercial properties were badly damaged, roads and bridges were flooded and washed away, some were blocked by landslides, electricity in many parts of the country were shut down and it is unclear when it will be restored, it might not be possible in some areas until January next year. Farmers are suffering from severe losses. Telecommunication services are also greatly affected. Many hospitals, commercial businesses and police stations are closed. The latest report stated that (19) Nineteen people lost their lives in Jamaica, and the death toll is expected to rise. In total, (59) Fifty-Nine people throughout the Caribbean have lost their lives because of the storm.
Moments like these brings out the best and the worst behavior in us. The word HELP at this time is most recognized, it can be heard coming from those who are affected all over the country. There are many who are responding to it.
In the Bible Jesus spoke a parable, from Luke 10:30-37. In this parable, Jesus spoke of a man who fell among thieves who robbed him and left him half dead by the wayside. We learned from the story that (3) Three people passed by but, only one person showed compassion. In verse (36) Jesus asked the question “Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among thieves”? The answer which was given to Jesus is “he that showeth mercy unto him”.
As Jamaica appeal for help she’s appealing to neighbors across the world to show compassion. Who is my neighbor? He that shows MERCY. The Apostolic Church In America is neighbor to many people all over the world as we make contributions to two major charities that support disaster victims namely the Samaritan Purse and Miami Rescue Mission. I invite you to be a neighbor to the people of Jamaica in this time of need.
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