As night fell on December 10, a horrific line of powerful tornadoes ripped across several states, ending the lives of more than 100 people and wreaking devastation across many communities by the time morning had broken. One of these tornadoes was on the ground for a terrifying and unprecedented 250 miles, more than 200 of those miles in Kentucky alone, where the town of Mayfield saw the catastrophic destruction of much of the downtown area, including the Presbyterian, Methodist and Baptist churches.

It is the season of Advent — a time of watchful expectation that begins with a warning of impending judgment, the end of days, and continues with a prayerful journeying toward the birth of the Christ Child at Christmas, an ordinary babe dependent on the love and care of others for his survival.

In the wake of these terrible and catastrophic storms, it is the role of ordinary people of faith like us to shine as light in this bleakest of winters. We are called to be the hands and feet of God as we reach out to shelter, feed, care for and help rebuild the lives of those who have lost loved ones, homes, work and a sense of safety as a result of the tornadoes. We are invited to stand with them — and to stand together — bearing witness by our gifts and prayers that God is indeed incarnate among us, no matter what.

GIVE: Gifts can be made online at pcusa.org/DT21, by phone at (800) 872-3283, or by check using the reply form below. Text PDA to 41444 to donate.

As we learn of another natural disaster, we pray. For those experiencing loss, may they feel comfort only your Holy Spirit can bring. We pray for wisdom and strength as they work to restore and repair their communities. May we heed your call, o God, to be co-creators with you in the caring of creation. May the hope, peace and love of the Christ child comfort and keep us all. -Rev. Dr. Diane Moffett, President and Executive Director, Presbyterian Mission Agency