Rising Water

There’s an old story about a guy whose house is surrounded by floodwaters. He climbs up on his roof, hugs the chimney, and prays to God for help. While he’s praying, someone from a nearby bridge throws him a rope and tells him to grab it. “No way!” he shouts, “I’m trusting God to help me.” Then a boat pulls up and the sailors yell, “Get in!” Still clutching the chimney, he says, “My salvation comes from the Lord.” Finally a helicopter hovers overhead and the crew sends down a basket to retrieve him. With one hand he pushes it away and says, “God will save me!” Eventually the waters rise above the roof of the house and he drowns. When he gets to heaven, the man is indignant. “I prayed for your help!” he says to God, “Why didn’t you save me from the floodwaters?” And God responds, “I tried to save you! Why didn’t you accept the rope, the boat, or the helicopter I sent???”

Good question! Could it be that you are overlooking God’s help?

• Do you or your family need counseling, financial coaching, debt management support, addiction assessment/support? Minnesota Service CORE is a program through Lutheran Social Service that provides those services free of charge to veterans and their immediate families. One call to the LSS hotline (1-888-881-8261) or the LINKVET hotline (1-888-546-5838) will get you the help you need.

• What about expanding your education and vocation possibilities for you or your immediate family? One visit to the Education Office here in Basrah (next to the post office) will get you on your way.

• Are you concerned about getting a job when you return from deployment? Take action now by contacting the Veterans Employment Services at 1-888-438-5627.

The only way these services can help is if you decide to use them. If you need them, use them. It’s a whole lot better than waiting for the waters to rise…

God’s Peace,

CH (CPT) Richard Rittmaster 34 ID Family Life Chaplain