By Peter Mihaere
On behalf of New Zealand Baptists Serving God around the World

We have all seen the devastation of Christchurch on our TV screens. We've been stunned, and saddened by the loss of life and destruction. We've seen the resilience of Kiwis, of 'Cantabs', to rise from this tragedy, some as heroes but most as ordinary people determined to press on and make the best of a bad situation.

One thing that appears to be missing in the media coverage is the church in action. I find this a little disappointing. The body of Christ, across the nation and from around the world, has been mobilised and is working tirelessly to help anyone in need. What an awesome feeling it is to be part of a body that rises in true Christlike manner and becomes Christ's legs and feet to a hurting community.

There are New Zealand Baptists all over the world that cannot come back to New Zealand at this time to help but I offer the following message on behalf of this community:

"We send our love and support to you, Christchurch. Many of us have family, friends, and supporters who have been lost or who need help and we stand with you at this time.

God has work for us to do here so we cannot leave our posts right now but, know this, our prayers and hearts are with you.

As you have often taken time to offer petitions on our behalf when we needed help we now do this for you.

We know all too well that in times of trouble and stress we can begin to wonder what God is doing. May we offer these verses as a reminder of where God is.

11 Then he was told, 'Go, stand on the mountain at attention before GOD. GOD will pass by.' A hurricane wind ripped through the mountains and shattered the rocks before GOD, but GOD wasn't to be found in the wind; after the wind an earthquake, but GOD wasn't in the earthquake; 12 and after the earthquake fire, but GOD wasn't in the fire; and after the fire a gentle and quiet whisper. 13 When Elijah heard the quiet voice, he muffled his face with his great cloak, went to the mouth of the cave, and stood there. A quiet voice asked, 'So Elijah...' "1 Kings 19:11-13 (The Message)

God is in the gentle and quiet whisper, so get ready to muffle your face, go to the mouth of the cave and stand. God's voice will ask, 'So Christchurch... '

Peter Mihaere

On behalf of New Zealand Baptists Serving God around the World