If you’ve been watching the news, you’re aware that the island of Cuba has been decimated. Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, which struck the island Aug. 31 and Sept. 8, created havoc in every sector of the communist nation. The Red Cross’ early estimate of total damage is app. $4 billion. Economists and veteran Cuba watchers don’t believe the island will ever completely recover, and even a partial reconstruction will take years. Many crops across the island were destroyed, and food warehouses were leveled. Hundreds of high tension electrical towers and power lines were down and the network of the water supply is contaminated, raising the possibility of epidemiological emergencies. Guarioné Díaz, president of the Cuban American National Council, said this is probably the worst economic disaster that Cuba has suffered in its history. “Just imagine your New Orleans/Katrina, but on a national scale that has effected an entire country,” he said.

Jesus told us to offer a cup of cold water in His name. This Sunday, our church family will have an opportunity to offer that relief in Jesus name. A special collection this Sunday will be hand delivered to Cuban church leaders for immediate aid to hurting Cubans the churches are trying to reach. If you’re interested in helping with this relief effort, you can make your check out to the Mayfair Church of Christ, marked “Cuba Relief.” Contact me if you’d like more information. Your gift to the churches in Cuba will equip church leaders to assist the hurting and care for people that may receive little or no help from their government.