I came across an accident the other day. By appearances it had just happened. Glass along with bits and pieces from the cars were still scattered on the road. There was a smell of steam in the air, with wisp now and then coming from under one of the car’s hood (bonnet). Most telling was the dazed individuals involved. Some were still getting out of one of the cars, while others were walking and looking without saying a word. I imagined the unheard cry within; “God! Please hurry to my rescue! God, come quickly to my side!” (Psalm 70.1) Everyone seemed a bit confused.
Even as I watched, wondering if I should call emergency, I could hear the sirens announcing that help was on the way. Police, a fire truck and apparently an ambulance were converging on the scene. The surreal scene would never quite be as it was in just a few minutes. The strange silence was already being replaced by the buzz from help that understood what was going on in ways the victims struggled to imagine. The evidence would soon be cleaned and scrubbed. Everything would return to what it was, except for the lives and property of those involved.
Describing the wreck and scene of the crash is a reminder of how many different ways the metaphor plays out in your life and mine. Disasters occur far more frequently than one might imagine. Most of the time, it is hard to see them coming. When they do happen those involved need help. It is a now or never type event. When help responds, especially help with the singular purpose of unconditionally helping those involved, it makes a difference.
Three observations.
When help is needed, time is critical. Waiting to ask does not help anyone.
In a wreck, there is a singular unifying reason to help. I do not recall seeing anyone check to see if there were insurance cards to pay for the service, or a priority to who gets helped linked to who was at fault.
In responding, roles have purpose.
