Natural Disaster Relief

“He gives power to the weak and to those who have no might, He increases strength.”
Isaiah 40:29

February 8, 2023

Dear Friend, thousands of people in Turkey and Syria are reeling from the devastating earthquakes that struck on the morning of February 6. The magnitude 7.8 quake and its aftershocks have unleashed a humanitarian disaster of unimaginable proportions.

Will you join me in prayer?

Heavenly Father, we trust in You in the midst of tragedy, and we send forth angels (Psalm 91:11) to surround our brothers, sisters, and church families in Turkey and Syria. Your covenant love, protection, and restoration belong to your children. We thank You in advance for providing your wrap-around presence (Psalm 61:1-4) and comfort beyond our understanding. We know You are near the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18) and your power and strength will ignite within us, who are able to support and provide resources of relief, a passion, and the means to respond. Thank you for providing innovative ideas and resources to us so we can act. In Jesus’ Name. Amen!

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in…” Matthew 25:35

On Monday, I heard from one of my dearest friends, the Senior Pastor of one of our partner churches in Turkey. As of yesterday, two of their Bible School graduates were still lost near the epicenter of the 7.8 magnitude earthquake. He was heartbroken — as am I—so many people have died or are still buried alive — but we are still trusting God for miracles.

Across a swathe of southern Turkey, people sought temporary shelter and food in freezing winter weather and waited in anguish by piles of rubble where family and friends may lie buried. One elderly lady had not seen any rescue teams and cried, “Where are the tents? Where are food trucks; we survived the earthquake, but we will die here due to hunger or cold.”

Sadly, the needs are rising rapidly in Turkey and Syria, and not everyone who requires assistance is visible. Over 75% of all sub-districts in the country are classified as being under severe, extreme, or catastrophic conditions.

BUT, WE ARE HERE TO BE LOVE IN ACTION AND WE HAVE A WAY TO RESPOND.

As I mentioned above, together and through our dear partners on the ground in Turkey, we can tangibly provide substantial relief. It’s true that there are numerous incredible organizations and ways to financially support those who have been affected. However, when you donate here today, 100% of your contribution goes directly to our partners on the ground to provide aid to their community – the invisible people who need help immediately. When you donate here, there is no bureaucracy, politics, or delay.

As your heart and the Holy Spirit leads you, will you please join me and others in giving your most generous gift today? We will begin sending funds this week.

I look forward to hearing from you today, if possible.