A Big snow-n-ice, and now wind, storm hammered the Northwest this Tuesday (1-17-12) through today.  Rain & warmer temps are now causing flooding & power outages.  Countless trees on power lines causing widespread power outages.  Greater Seattle are is generally safe & secure, but rural areas experiencing severe isolation challenges.  A great opportunity for Christians to "let their lights shine with their good deeds" of hospitality and by being a good neighbor.  Matt 5:14-16

The "benchmark" for disaster preparedness in the Northwest is, "Be prepared for an earthquake during a winter storm for at least 5 to 10 days (used to be 3 days), then you're prepared for most Northwest disasters."  We did not experience an earthquake during this winter story, but if we had, there would have been HUGH power outages (cold!) and transportation challenges...to say nothing of fuel & food shortages, plus communication obstacles.  Let's use this winter storm as a wake-up call to increase our level of personal/family preparedness AND to help get local Churches on board in raising their level emergency/disaster preparedness...from a car accident or house fire, to an earthquake during severe winter storm.

Some current Prayer Points for the Northwest:

1.  Thankful for our current level of emergency preparedness and the response of our local disaster/emergency services.

2.  Comfort and provision for tens of thousands of families without power since Tuesday. Many not sure when when their power will be restored, especially with the forecasted high winds today/night, and continuing rain.

3.  Minimal flooding and reduced power outages in the Greater Seattle area.  Remember to pray for Oregon.  They are experiencing severe flooding on top of this severe winter storm.

4.  God's call on local Church leaders to raise their level of personal/family & Church disaster preparedness.

I believe this storm is another trumpet [sounding] a clear call to get ready for battle [or pending disaster].  (1 Cor 14:8)  Jesus is a Crisis Opportunist, and I believe He's calling His Church in the Northwest to be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks to give the reason for the hope that you have...or to share their generator, warm food, etc., especially in times of crisis.  (1 Peter 3:15)

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 What do you think?

Pat Hamman, City Chaplain Pat@CityChaplain.org