In October of 1980, my wife and I honeymooned in rustic, romantic Lahaina on the beautiful island of Maui. By mid August of 2023, this loving town of 13,000 was virtually gone, decimated by massive wildfires. Over 2,200 structures were burnt to the ground, and hundreds of lives were either lost or unaccounted for. It has become the United States’ greatest wildfire tragedy in 100 years and one of the world’s worst.

Amazingly, one of the few surviving structures was the Maria Lanakila Church depicted in this picture, virtually unscathed by the wind swept flames. It would become an appropriate symbol of light and hope as churches on Maui and beyond mobilized quickly to render aid. Houses of worship became the swiftest conduits for on the ground distribution of finances, food, water, clothing and life’s many essentials. But more than that they offered up close comfort, relational connection, emotional support and spiritual strength.

Grace Bible Church Maui led by Pastor Jonavan Asato has been our spiritual family’s pillar of strength there. Over decades, key connections with other churches and island officials were forged by Jonavan’s Father, Founding Pastor Eddie Asato, and further enlarged by Jonavan himself. This helped them become fast responders to first responders, a financial resource, a rescue shelter, distribution center, hospitality base and a prayer refuge. Their impact was huge, and their speed was swift because their strategy was relational. Organic connections bought time for larger organizational entities to kick in.

That said, what does this crisis along with other such tragedies teach us about what will be most important moving forward? If you ask experts in all fields and the faith community especially, it will be the healing, renewal and rebuilding of the soul. Structures will be rebuilt and material possessions replaced but for life to continue, mental health challenges will need to be resolved and the oxygen of hope restored. Experts I have spoken to over the years tell me the church of Jesus Christ is the most equipped to make a permanent difference because it can make an eternal difference. Here’s how to help those walking through any type of crises:

BE WITH THEM: There is healing power in personal presence. The pandemic taught everyone that isolation and separation are enemies of the soul. Don’t worry about what to say, just be present. Even silence can be golden. Take your cues from them as to what to say or do. Believers, remember that the Holy Spirit Himself dwells within you. Hurting people will be able to sense that.

FEEL WITH THEM: Empathy extends comfort, and comfort is a catalyst to recovery. Scripture encourages us to weep with those who weep. Put yourself into their shoes and ask yourself: “How would I feel if this happened to me?” At the same time refrain from over-identifying with their pain. You must maintain a boundary in order to convey inner strength. A hand on the shoulder, or an appropriate hug can go a long way.

PRAY FOR THEM: Talking to God for them in front of them often transcends talking with them, at least initially. Praying for them out loud opens a window for the Lord to manifest his presence and power. This kind of prayer can often dissolve awkward silence by warming the heart.

LISTEN TO THEM: Ask simple questions without being forceful or intrusive. They may or may not be ready to talk. Here are a few suggested questions: “Is there anything I can do for you?”, “What is your greatest concern right now?” “How/where can I help you the most?” Summarize and reframe what they are saying with clear affirming perspective. People process their way to health through expressing themselves.

PROVIDE FOR THEM: People in crisis often lose the ability to do normal tasks and lose sight of self care. Providing finances, meals, refreshments, groceries, doing chores and running errands can be undertaken even without gaining their permission in some instances. This is because at first shock and grief has impaired the ability to function normally.

STAY WITH THEM: Moving from crisis into normalcy will take time. Stay connected. As progress is made be sure to check in with them. It will be a journey needing to be taken with others who care over time. The tendency is to front load attention, and wean off prematurely. The severity of the crisis will determine the duration of connection.

BRING OTHERS AROUND THEM: This has to be done at the right time when they are willing and ready. Initially a support group of others who have gone through a similar crisis will provide a circle of understanding that will accelerate a robust recovery. Then, gradually walk them into a regular small group setting that processes the experiences of life through the eternal lens of scripture. This is where relational discipleship can turn healing and recovery into hope and resurrection. The gospel will frame a proper view of death and suffering. The company of healthy people around them will cultivate a climate of health within them.

Pastor Jonavan provided this perspective: “This is the opportunity to build relationships with the community by meeting needs quickly. We are the long term solution relationally and spiritually. Many people came to church for the first time (recently)when they experienced the generosity and empathy of church members sitting and praying with them. We have seen so many people in desperation be completely moved…” Both Jonavan and his Father Eddie reiterated that so many are now so open to the gospel.

We close with the words of Jesus who said: “ You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16)

To Christ followers everywhere it is time to let the light of God’s love shine. People need to know that an incredible heaven transcends this scorched earth and that life in eternity awaits through faith in Jesus Christ. Because of the promise of the gospel, God’s church will always stand and God’s truth will always prevail.