By Pastor Steve Easterwood, First Baptist Church Dexter

In the early days of Christianity the church soon became known for outrageous acts of love. Two great plagues swept the Roman Empire within a hundred years of Christ’s death, killing millions. As you can imagine, fear gripped the hearts of the people.

Not knowing the cause of the sickness, families often pushed their own members out into the streets, leaving them to die alone. In an age with no hospitals, hospice, or nursing homes, the Christians took over the care of the dying, even at the risk of their lives. No wonder people wanted to know their Jesus.

Although we are not faced with a plague of these devastating proportions our area is currently experiencing a crisis. Families are struggling with flooded homes and businesses. Communities have been evacuated. Schools are closed.

What a great time for Christian people to stand up and be counted. Those of us who have escaped the flood need to help those who have been decimated.

Churches “on the hill” need to assist churches “in the valley” that are struggling to minister to their communities.

If you are reading this column and you are a Christian, I challenge you to galvanize your church. Find some people who need help and provide them manpower, resources, or whatever they need. This is a time to show the flood victims what the church of Jesus Christ is all about. Let us be known for our outrageous acts of love.