A huge opportunity is available especially to our attractional/traditional churches. Haiti had brought ordinary people out of the woodworks and into action. Others are looking for an outlet to help, express, and make sense of the calamity. What is your church doing about the devastation? Do you have a response? Are you only going to briefly mention Haiti in a blanket prayer to God during service? Will send people to your denominational HQ to give? Does it even change what you're going to do Sunday?

For most, Haiti will merely be a blip on the overall theme for our churches Sunday. It certainly will be mentioned, but the schedule of church (sermon series) won't be bumped by the plight of the poorest nation.

It shouldn't be like this, and I pray my description above the complete opposite of what your church is doing.

But think of this. If the community, the non churchgoers, are looking to express, almost release a sigh of anguish, shouldn't they do it at church. Shouldn't you help them along the way?

If you're all about getting people into your building then this is the chance. Put on a benefit concert and invite the community. Take an offering with all proceeds going to the Red Cross or your choice agency. Remind people that the Canadian Govt will match all donations. Give people the option to have someone pray over them as they come to grips with the devastation.

There is a necessary human response, and a necessary Christian response, to right the wrongs in Haiti.

This is a massive opportunity for your church not to attract a few extra visitors this Sunday, but to LEAD the charge to offer long term solutions and redemption to a torn country. Be a part of the solution in a real and tangible way, don't let Haiti become a fleeting by the time February rolls around.