assignment. One group of ladies gave up their time to spend the day cooking meals for the victims and volunteers as well as packing lunches to carry around door to door. Even though all were strangers, the church felt like its own community determined to do nothing but simply serve the people of Joplin. Stories of affected lives will continue


to pour out of Joplin. Pulling up to two houses sitting side by side that were totally destroyed, we noticed the “Day Care” sign hanging on the front of one of them and were immediately struck—and filled with gratitude—that no children were there during the storms. Aſter spending hours in the heat moving debris to the street to be picked up by FEMA trucks and hauled to the dump, the owner of the house arrived. He was a local firefighter who had been too busy working in response to the disaster and dealing with FEMA to get an estimate on


the damages. He hadn’t even had time to go through his own belongings and grasp what had happened to his own home. Te stories and images of the


destruction have helped fuel some people within our association to begin planning and working out details for an effective method in which the BMAA’s local, state, and national associations can be prepared to respond the next time disaster strikes. “As has been evident lately, this


earth is experiencing an acceleration of disasters. I believe Scripture has prepared us not only to watch for Jesus’ return, but also for the opportunity to reach out to the lost. If we, as an association, would prepare to be a relief for the disasters ahead, I believe it can change the way churches are viewed. By supporting the local church within the affected area, we can plow ground, plant seeds, water, and let God give the increase—for His glory,


not ours. I believe we can put together a network that can be efficient and quick responding in ways we never imagined. I believe we can respond to disasters and truly make a difference in people’s lives,” stated Alston. Relief efforts in Joplin are continuing


and will continue for some time. Te most effective thing any individual or group can do for the relief efforts is to go and help. “Tis is our backyard. Tey are


desperately asking for groups to come and help. Tere is something to do for anybody and everybody. Come and be a part of disaster relief in our own backyard, be the hands and feet of Jesus,” said Larry Barker. To find how you can be a part of the


Joplin disaster relief efforts, contact the Missions office at (501) 455-4977 or contact Grace Baptist Church in Joplin, Missouri, at (417) 623-1924.


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