How High’s the Water, Momma?

Do you remember that Johnny Cash song written in 1959?  On February 17, our village of Churchville incurred the most flooding probably since Hurricane Hazel, also in the 1950s.  It was caused by warm weather, lots of rain, ice jams and the overflow of storage water in the pond behind our home all at once.  The pressure blew off bolted-down manhole covers on a street near the river. I watched the water rise to a foot in our backyard and six inches came in our outdoor building where Gary has his office.  The water kept rising in our crawl space (no basement).  When it was three feet deep Gary said we might have to turn the hydro off and evacuate to our daughter’s home nearby.  We waited for a while and the water level seemed to peak. We never did leave but now have lots of dirt to clean up.  We hit the news with Gary being interviewed by several reporters.  I even did a couple.  Our neighbours didn’t fair as well as we did for quite a few experienced much more water damage.  Churchville is quiet now that all the police cars, fire department pumping trucks, city workers and reporters have left. They were all very courteous and helpful. Still, we are concerned about any unexpected spring thaw that comes our way.

Flooding has created much suffering and havoc throughout the world.  It was sad to watch residents in BC and their livelihood being affected by too much cold and water last year.  It is extremely sad to view the Ukraine nation being destroyed by Russia’s sudden assault this past week.  A missionary couple, family of our pastor friend and his wife, found themselves in a caravan trying to get from Lviv to Krakow, Poland to safety.  It took them about two days travelling a short distance along with numerous refugees flooding into several border countries.  They all are facing an uncertain future. Many other courageous Ukrainians living elsewhere are flooding back into their homeland to fight for their beloved country and family members.  I am sure you are praying for a resolution sooner than later.  I just learned that the Canadian Bible Society (biblesociety.ca) is asking for new/used Bibles for these dear folk.  I will send them a box full this week.

Myanmar has also been flooded with too much suffering and heartache over the years due to heavier military regime restrictions, constant poverty and COVID without vaccinations.  Our friend Thomas’ desire is to help orphans left behind by building an orphanage for their care.  They have the land and building has begun.  The need now is for $10,000 CDN to finish this building.

Sadly, we have not had a flood of newcomers to Hillside Church so far this year.  It is bewildering but some how Scott Lockhart, Gary and I can’t quit. We have applied once again for funding for the summer from Canada Summer Jobs program.  Please pray that we will be approved and find many students to come and work this outreach endeavour to grow Hillside this fall.  There are always additional costs of printing, postage etc. that need to be paid for by Hillside.

Our hearts agree with David’s prayer to God to protect us all during whatever flood we have to face as He looked after that faithful missionary couple serving in Ukraine.  Psalm 5:11, “But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.”

Be safe!

Wendy          Wendy.carter@kainos.org