In the 16th century, Santorini was devastated by a volcanic eruption. If you visit today, you will see the iconic white houses on the cliffs of Oia’ and small islands covered in volcanic pebbles that surround the caldera.
It’s hard to imagine that such a violent event could lead to such incredible beauty. What remains after the disaster are what many argue, the most powerful views of the Aegean Sea in the world.
As we all wake this week and reach for our devices to see updates on the Ukraine, it’s hard to imagine any beauty in this evil playing out on live television.
Still, millions have been inspired by the Ukrainian people and their bravery. We are all praying for them and an outcome that doesn’t lead to a broader war.
As I watch the incredible personal bravery of their President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, I cannot help but believe something beautiful will follow this historic tragedy. I don’t know what that will be or what it will look like… but I can imagine what will remain might impact the entire world. What will remain might make us a more faithful, more united, and even more beautiful world.
We are part of a denomination that reaches around the world into 138 countries including the Ukraine. In our Sunday School classes, our Bible studies, our UMW and UMM groups… we have the opportunity to dig deep into this historic moment and let it change us… for the better.
If you would like to help support relief you can do so here: Donations can be made to the United Methodist Committee on Relief’s International Disaster Response and Recovery through Advance #982450.
1 Corinthians 15:51 ESV “Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed.”
If you would like to view past editions of A Message from Kim, follow this link: https://sounddistrictnc.org/category/from-district-lay-leader/
If you would like to connect with Kim please do so through her email, k.smith@nccumc.org