By Fr. Christopher Kubat
“A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead.
Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion, and went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring oil and wine; then set him on his own beast and brought him to an inn and took care of him” (Lk 10:30-34).
Many in Nebraska are still recovering from the horrendous flooding. In addition to the lives that have been lost, countless others have lost their homes and businesses. The cost estimate of the damage is now well over one billion dollars and counting. It will take months to determine the true dollar amount. Much worse than the damage to homes, buildings, roads and bridges is the indescribable suffering caused by the catastrophic event.
I like to think that donors who have chipped in to help with their time, talent and treasure are like the Good Samaritan described by Jesus as recorded in Luke’s gospel. As in past natural disasters, I am very edified by the faithful who have reached out to help. They are assisting because when, “One member suffers, all suffer together” (1 Cor 12:26).
One of the first calls we had for help was from the community of Peru, where their water supply was contaminated. We purchased, shipped and donated pallets of water to the city. Moving forward, and after the initial clean-up, there will be many individuals who will need help with the cost of rebuilding. Thanks to our benefactors, we are able to help.
For those who want to make a monetary donation, you can do so online at www.cssisus.org or by sending a check to Catholic Social Services, 2241 O St. Lincoln NE 68510. Be sure to list “Flood Relief” in the designation field or check memo. 100% of what is sent to us will be used to assist those in need.
I would like to thank the many individuals who have donated funds and material items to us so we can reach out to our brothers and sisters in the Lord that are in need. Please never forget to pray for those who have been affected by this latest natural disaster. We will keep you and your families in our prayers.
