Saturday, May 1, 2010 Middle Tennessee woke up to a rainy Saturday morning. By the end of the weekend, floods had affected thousands in our area, including 33 families from Christ Community Church. Even as the waters rose, friends and neighbors were helping each other move furniture to higher levels, taking in families whose homes were flooding, and responding as the Lord led. 

Monday morning my family returned to our own home to discover that someone had already delivered a case of water.   Within hours a dumpster was delivered in front of our house. I looked out later and saw Pastor Mike Smith dumping a load along with many others from CCC who came in to help. Elder Tom Wilk and wife, Kim “witnessed the hands, feet, and face of Jesus in the many ways people helped [them] during the days and weeks following the flood”. Deacon Tim Potter commented on the post flood relief efforts, “It was amazing to see our body come together and give their time and resources in such a sacrificial and generous way. We had members working practically around the clock, ministering to those devastated by the flood.”   Christ Community served as a triage point for those who needed assistance, helping connect those in need with those willing to serve. Ann and Wendell Harris described their “deep gratitude for so many people that stepped into our family’s life and helped us.  Wendell and I looked at each other and said, ‘we have seen the Church today’ “.

Following the flood, CCC members gave generously of their time, their talents and their treasure.  Christ Community contributed almost $60,000 to flood relief which has been poured into the lives of those affected. Funds were used to replace heating/AC units, assist with drywall, replace flooring and cabinetry, provide temporary storage while homes were repaired, etc.

On this first anniversary most of our members have returned home. Most of the physical affects of the flood have been repaired, restored or replaced. We are aware however that the flood did more than that. We encourage you to check on your friends, neighbors and fellow CCC’ers who were impacted by last year’s flood. Take the opportunity to hear their stories, to allow them to share where God met them, and continue to walk with your brothers and sisters.