Great beauty often follows storms. Don’t get me wrong. The loss of life is horrible; the destruction of property, livelihoods, and displacement of families is heartbreaking. Yet, amid all this stress and pain, we will find beauty as neighbors and strangers step up to help however they can. Some will perform searches; some will open their homes, businesses, and church buildings; some will provide food and water; others will bring labor, chainsaws, and tools; others will gather supplies and clothing for victims. There will always be some evil; however, masses of good people from all over our nation will come together to help.

Although our news constantly tells us how much we hate each other, helping others should not be about skin color, language, or who we vote for. Good-hearted people show compassion as they strive to help one another. This is a real strength of America: neighbors who care about other people’s well-being.

This is the real America: where people step up in times of crisis to help others. This neighborly help is a real strength of America. Our pledge says “one nation under God,” and our money says “In God We Trust.” These mottos are not biblical claims that every helper, or the nation itself, is a follower of Christ but for disciples, the care goes further. It is the love of Christ at work through us. “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” — Jesus (John 13:34–35)

See: John 13:34–35; Luke 10:25–37; Galatians 6:10; Romans 12:15; Matthew 25:35–40; Micah 6:8; 1 John 3:17–18; Hebrews 13:16; Proverbs 14:21; James 2:15–16.

God First!