Hurricane Helene
The weekend after Hurricane Helene hit, our pastor called up a group of men about to head out to help those affected. Bruce was the photographer for church that day and stood on stage taking pictures of the team as they were prayed for. This team, who was leaving the next day, was from Youth Reach, a faith-based, relationship-focused organization that helps broken young men find freedom and purpose.
Watching Bruce capture their prayer time, I instantly knew Bruce was supposed to accompany the team as their photographer. However, they were leaving the next day, so conversations would need to be had immediately. Therefore, once prayer time was complete, I headed to the back of the church to find Bruce. Bruce sat on the floor, gathering his camera gear. Sharing with Bruce what I felt I heard from the Lord, he nodded and said he had felt the Lord stir his heart to join the team as well. But he was uncertain how that would all unfold since they were leaving the next day.
Heading toward the church restrooms, the first person I ran into was the Director of Youth Reach. As soon as I saw him, I knew God was making a connection. I shared that both Bruce and I felt he was to go with their team to capture photos of what they were doing to help the elderly in Jasper, FL, who had been affected by Hurricane Helene. Their director agreed and encouraged Bruce to connect with their outreach team lead.
A few short hours later, plans were developed, and Bruce began to prepare to join the team.
On his way to Jasper, Bruce witnessed trees scattered across homes and roads. And electricity was a rare commodity. Arriving late into the evening, Bruce joined the team at a local church, where he blew up his air mattress and got some much-needed shut-eye after a long drive. The next day, Bruce captured photos with his camera and drone.
Multiple tree-cutting services were out looking for ways to financially gouge those with trees littering their yards and even some on their houses. Their prices were astronomical, so when Youth Reach arrived with trucks, chainsaws, and manpower to chop up and transport their trees for free, the elderly were moved to tears.
This act of genuine care and compassion broke down barriers and opened hearts. The men worked tirelessly while sharing Christ’s love through words and deeds. After many hours of serving, the men engaged, heard stories, and empathized with those who had lost so much.
These men, some brand new believers, poured out, and Bruce was blessed to capture these moments.
Please take time today to pray for many who have been affected by Hurricane Helene—those who lost loved ones or their belongings. Also, please lift Youth Reach up in your prayers! Their ministry not only changes the lives of the young men who are a part of their program, but it also impacts communities affected by natural disasters. Lives are being changed every day because of Youth Reach’s work to empower young men and point them to Jesus while they all serve those in need.
Click on the photo to see the mighty work this team accomplished!
