This was our view as we neared home after we had evacuated for a week. Hurricane Isaac, although only a category 1, caused some unexpected flooding in Laplace (about 15 min from where we live). We were shocked to see this area that we see often, covered in water.
Two weeks passed and I kept on feeling this sense of guilt - that I should be out there helping those who had damage in their homes. But of course, I couldn't. I have three precious children who need me everyday. I later realized that sense of guilt was probably God's prompting to be a little creative in allowing the kids to be a part of helping these people. Then...it clicked. These families are probably working hard gutting their houses; working in their yards; etc. What if we loaded our cooler up with drinks, bought a bunch of snacks and drove around neighborhoods offering a little something and giving them a break? The kids were so excited. This was their project. They could use their smiling faces and sweet voices to cheer someone up.
They thought it was fun to ride in the van unbuckled (probably not the best decision I've made but it made things easier every time we stopped;))
I could not have imagined what to expect. I had no clue where I was - I just turned right off the main road. The neighborhood was huge and like a maze. I still don't know how I exited when we were done. Anyway, street after street with curbside debris. What seemed at times as an entire house full of flooring, furniture, stuff was mind boggling.
There weren't many people out working. I guess by now everyone had been back to work and most of the cleaning up was done. Eden and Lincoln decided to make binoculars with their hands to look for people in their yards. What creative little kids.
Well, we met 4 people (families). Not a whole lot but worth every bit of our time driving around. I felt awkward taking pictures of these people and only got the name of one of them. Ms. Bridget, our first stop. Sweet lady who professed to be a believer in Jesus. I could tell she just wanted to share her experience with someone. She had wanted new floors prior to the hurricane but didn't quite have the money to put into it. Her perspective and attitude was incredible. She wasn't angry. She knew that God was still good.
Then, there were two ladies outside washing their vehicles with two children playing. Well, Eden and Lincoln did not hesitate to take the snack bag to the kids. It was so sweet to see. The ladies were definitely frustrated). Yes their house had water damage but they were going to have to take their vehicles to an adjuster to assess any possible damage. I could sense their exhaustion. I mean, what do I even say!!
Stop #3 was a man who looked like he was in his mid thirties. I could tell he didn't really wanted to be bothered initially but when I opened the door and he saw the kids, his demeanor changed. He gave Lincoln the responsibility of picking out the snack. Lincoln was honored. "We're thinking of you all and praying for a quick recovery" was all I could think to say. THEN he opened up a little. Apparently some prize possession was damaged. His 'pride and joy' were the words he used to describe it. I couldn't make out what he said it was and pointing to a huge heap of stuff, well, there was no figuring it out.
Last stop was an older gentleman. He kindly declined our offer but appreciated waves from the kids through the window. Don't know his name or his story but I will remember the calm spirit I saw.
Two hours into driving around, we were ready to head back home. The lack of nap for us was evident by the drooping eyes. So we called it quits. I am so glad God prompted my kids and I do something. It was nothing compared to what other people have done to help but as my go-to verse for this year states, 'And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Chirst.' (Col 3:23-24). This endeavor had nothing to do with us. We were just the 'vessels'. To God be the glory.
