Rainy Days

WOW--we had some rainy days (as did lots of places in IL and elsewhere!)  On April 17--19 we got ALOT of rain.  We were not directly affected, our basement stayed dry and Sadie's school stayed open.  However, several area schools had to close for multiple days due to roads being flooded.  Many families in our church area had to evacuate their homes--some lost nearly all of their belongings and their houses.  I didn't get to directly see the devastation, but Marc was able to spend Saturday, April 27th working alongside with many community and church volunteers doing flood clean-up.  He helped an 80 year old man move belongings out of his house--some to trash, some to salvage.  He also spent time helping tear up ruined flooring.  He met another man who said he couldn't begin to try and repair his home, he was letting the bank take it and trying to figure out something until he could get back on his feet. 

I can only begin to try and imagine what these people are going through.  We have never experienced this kind of devastation on a personal level.  It's hard to understand why bad things happen but Marc is always quick to marvel at how God's work is shown in times of devastation.  He never fails to point out to me (with amazement) how it is so awesome to see people come together to help each other--I guess it's part of the human spirit.  God created imperfect people and we live in an imperfect world, but he gave us the tools we need to be his hands and feet to those who are hurting.  It was amazing to see how the Minooka churches came together to meet the needs of the community.  They collected clothing and household items, gift cards, food, etc. for people in need.  Many people offered up their homes as temporary housing.  The churches organized work days to help people clean out their homes.  The churches fed and clothed people.  I'm so proud to be a part of a church that is committed to being the hands and feet of Jesus!  Our work is not done--it never will be... as long as we live devastation and destruction will be a part of life.  In times like these I choose to see the good, be the good, and hold fast to the promise that I have a perfect reward coming when this life is over!

On a lighter note, Kinnick got this adorable raincoat and boots from his cousin Jaren just in time to enjoy the rain.  He and Macey discovered that they really like playing with worms...  Happy Spring!