Flood for Thoughts (2)

2. When we arrived at certain houses, we were informed that we were not the only people who were providing them with help. Before us, there were already other religious associations and political parties that have been providing food and new clothings to them for the past few days. When we heard that there were other religious associations that were aiding them, a natural feeling of disappointment emerged within us. We felt that their effort was lessening the impact of our help on the victims; for the victims would see them in the same way as they see us - people of love and concern.

Yet, it is at this moment that our true colours are revealed. It seems that we are more concern about giving them a good impression of ourselves and Christ, rather than fulfilling their immediate needs. As we dispatch the items to the victims, will we feel that our efforts are wasted if we do not have the chance to share the gospel with them or even tell them that we are Christians? Or can we believe that even that silent act of giving them a packet of fried rice is already bringing a smile to our Father?

Rather than seeing other helpers as rivals, we need to discard our narrow-mindedness and respond with joy and thankfulness that these people, in spite of being adherents of other religions, serve the same cause as us in helping the needy ones. Furthermore, it will be even better if people of different religions and political parties could work together in helping the flood victims. By creating a partnership among the various groups, the manpower, the items and other resources could be fully utilized. Yet, many would be reluctant to work together, as it would certainly make it difficult for one group to make a good impression on the people over the rest. Thus, to make the partnership possible, each group has to lay aside its hidden agendas and motives and work together to serve one single purpose: to help the needy ones.