In light of the Haiti tragedy, all of us have been moved to pray for those who have experienced devastation. That is an immediate reaction to the events with a degree of passion and fervor. It is truly a “first response” kind of action. Typically, however, we use the term “first responder” in this kind of case with those who get in country to help. In the Free Methodist Church’s case, the Clear Blue team would have truly been considered first responders. They were digging through the rubble for survivors before the dust had settled. But, we must remember that many people were on their knees in the dust thousands of miles away before the dust had settled. Those are “first responders” as well.
Whether a person is a distant first responder in prayer or with a telephone or a computer; or, a first responder with hands and feet, it is important that there is no delay. Delay is evidence of apathy, self-absorption or lack of mercy. First response comes from people that are sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s direction, the pain of others and their environment.
Much could and should be said about staying the course, perseverance and maintaining faith through the grind of adversity. That is the long, backside of dealing with issues. But, for a moment, I want to celebrate those who jump on every prompt to praise or pray. I want to celebrate those who walk out of the house in the morning and see the sun and trees and utter praise to the Lord without being consumed with thoughts of waiting work. I want to celebrate those who are nagged by the grief of others and don’t wait until the weekend to assist them. I want to celebrate those who are convicted of sin and don’t delay until church on Sunday to confess and seek God’s aid and the forgiveness of those offended. First response frankly comes from responsive people. Delayed response comes from unresponsive people.
Make it a clear priority to become aware of what is going on around you and respond in a way that pleases the Lord and helps others without delay. Be quick to praise, confess, pray, help and give. Do this without laborious, self-convincing or self-justifying slowness. The result will be the ability to see, hear and feel what is important. Quick response begets quick response from the Lord. Saul’s demise was a slow response (1 Samuel 15) to reproof. David’s continuance as king was contingent upon a quick response to reproof (2 Samuel 12). It could be argued that Abraham’s quick response to an unbelievably difficult command was the turning point in becoming considered the “father of the faith” (Genesis 22:2-3). It is with eyes and ears wide open that the quick responders say, “Speak Lord for your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10). Whether on the ground or from a distance, we should continue to look for opportunities to respond quickly.