“Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord; O Lord, hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy.” Psalm 130:1-2 (NIV)
This video was created as a tribute to the people of Japan impacted by the 9.0 magnitude earthquake and the disastrous tsunami aftermath. Entire villages were destroyed, families and loved ones have perished, and what was once known as the one of the strongest countries in the world is now left with nothing. But God’s light never dwindles. Even in times of darkness, God is working miracles shown by the compassionate and heroic acts of the worldwide community who have displayed unmatched stoicism and courage in the face of devastation. We learn of the courageous and merciful acts of those who are risking their lives to help the earthquake victims and we talk about our desires to help. Let us put our words into action by continuing to pray for and support our brothers and sisters in Japan.
Although our hearts break for what is going on, as their brothers and sisters, we are to draw strength from God and respond with hope and love when faced with adversity. This tragic event has shown that the healing and rebuilding process will be long, but it can be shortened if we come alongside our brothers and sisters in Japan to pray, support, and rebuild their country. Let’s come together and help them write a new hopeful story in the aftermath of devastation. Please continue to pray and listen to how God is calling each one of us to respond and serve. Thank you.
Lance has been a fan and follower of WitnessLA.orgfrom the very beginning. He offered to help out with graphics and social media and later hopped on board as an editor. He finally shares part of his testimony.
I didn’t grow up with religion. It was around but I spent my energy and focus on other things. My family didn’t practice religion, nor did most of my friends. I went to an episcopal elementary school but I always passed on the communion. I recited prayers and sang hymns but they didn’t mean anything to me. I had a bible but never had the desire to open it. I didn’t believe in God. I believed in sports and studying and family and friends. I was blessed throughout my childhood, young adult and college years, as well as my working years. I have had amazing support through family, surrounded by great people and presented with amazing opportunities. And none of it did I attribute to God. I didn’t thank him.
I started going to church a few years ago because my girlfriend went to church. At first I stayed home on Sundays while she attended. Then I started going just to support her. She volunteered with the greeting and ushering ministry so I started helping out too. I was still very skeptical and reluctant. As the weeks passed I would go more often and I also started meeting more people. The music began to captivate and move me. (Vaughn Thompson Jr. was our worship leader at the time). And soon I began to occasionally resonate with the sermon and I started listening more. Words and relationships grew stronger though I still did not have a relationship with God.
Earlier this year, I had just come back from a trip to Thailand where I married my wife. Returning to Los Angeles, I was unemployed and seeking direction in my life…[click “Read More” below to continue]
In the spirit of our friend Pastor Sam’s awesome testimony from earlier this week, we here at WitnessLA.org want to hear how you, our readers, have been protected by God in the past. Please share any stories you have of divine intervention, near-death experiences, healing miracles or any other way God has protected you, your family, or your friends by submitting a comment below. They can be grand or small. We just look forward to reading your stories and for our community to be blessed by witnessing God’s hand on each of your lives!
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” (Isaiah 43:2, NIV)
This Thursday May 6th is the National Day of Prayer. Here at WitnessLA we want to know what you, our readers, are going to be praying for. Please leave your comments and prayer requests below! We can’t wait to hear what’s on your heart and to see how God will be faithful to answer.
