The recent deluge of storms in southeast America have had profound effects, killing far more than we would expect, destroying homes and property, and wiping out infrastructure that is creating its own injuries and harm. The focus is often on the horror and harm. Discussions revolve around the problems, possible solutions, and timelines for healing the wounds, but I wish to consider another aspect of this time.

Seemingly out of nowhere people arise to help and heal. People of every religious and non religious backgrounds are suddenly mobilized to help others. People without power and water in their own homes become part of the brigade for others in hard or harder hit areas. People who work for power companies all over the country go from working a job to a missionary zeal to rescue and rebuild. People unable to assist themselves offer what they can in money, encouragement, and prayer for those who can put hands to the task. An army arises from every corner and circumstance to create hope and help. Amazing! Stunning!

Despite this great service, the human tendency is to see it from a labeling and self serving perspective. It sees all its own kind that have risen to the challenge instead of the whole of the event. It discounts others of a different type and may even use disparaging terms and phrases like, “Good works don’t . . . ” and forget the General who called the masses to work, regardless of their background and knowledge. It is easy to forget that the Author of creation values the ones who hear the call and respond. The Creator is the head warrior against evil and destruction, and it is His values and His personhood that calls across creation to rise and follow.

We are the created. Our goal is not just to listen, but to hear, not to just look, but to see. He is the one who puts “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” in the hearts of men because it is His character. These characteristics in humanity, any humanity – regardless of the label given them – is a reflection of the Creator’s influence or presence in our world. These qualities don’t exist without Him. We have a choice to focus on the creator instead of the created, the influencer instead of the influenced. All benefits come from the love of God whether people hear or see or not. The greatest joy comes to those who engage in Him and let Him install His character within them. It is important that we express thankfulness to those who hear and respond, and go to thanksgiving and beyond to the One who inspires people to be more and better.