Francis Chan: How to Respond When Bad Things Happen - Cornerstone

Sermon Summary

Putting Ourselves in Others' Shoes

When faced with situations of need, such as those unfolding in Haiti, it's natural to wonder what we can do to help. The pastor shares a personal approach to responding to these situations: putting ourselves in others' shoes and asking what they would want us to do for them.

He illustrates this by considering the needs of his brothers and sisters in Haiti who are walking through the streets singing hymns, despite their immense suffering. He asks himself what he would want his community in Seami Valley, California to be doing for him if he were in their shoes.

This approach encourages us to think about the specific prayers and aid that those in need would desire from us, rather than simply offering generic assistance. By putting ourselves in others' shoes, we can better understand their needs and respond in a way that is both meaningful and effective.

The Law of Love

The pastor also touches on the idea that God's law of love has been written into our hearts, as mentioned in Romans 2. This implies that our desire to help others is not just a human instinct, but rather a reflection of our divine nature.

When we see someone in need and feel compelled to act, it may be because we are responding to this innate sense of love and compassion. This understanding can give us hope and encouragement as we strive to live out our faith in practical ways.

Responding with Love

The pastor shares an example of how the community has already responded to a previous emergency situation, raising $120,000 for widows and orphans affected by a massacre in India. This money was used to build an orphanage that will house 150 people, demonstrating a sustainable and effective way to serve those in need.

He also highlights the work of Children's Hunger Fund, which is training leaders in Haiti to distribute aid in a way that is both practical and loving. This approach prioritizes empowering local communities to care for themselves, rather than simply providing handouts.

The pastor's message encourages us to respond to situations of need with love, compassion, and a willingness to put ourselves in others' shoes. By doing so, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us and reflect the character of our Creator.