Diane Langberg, renowned Christian psychologist on trauma, says, “I think a look at suffering humanity would lead to the realization that trauma is perhaps the greatest mission field of the twenty-first century. Trauma is the equivalent of a personal tsunami.”

I’m a person of hope, not hope in this world, but hope in God. I sign all of my books with, “Hope eternal.” I’m also a person who is real. I wrote a book on my honest journey with my mom who battled dementia. It was a traumatic journey. I’m not being negative; I’m being real. It is brutal to watch your loved one’s mind being hijacked by a brain disease that ultimately takes his or her life. And when I say brutal, I mean brutal.

That isn’t the only traumatic event I’ve been through. It wasn’t the first, and it wasn’t the last. Trauma. Personal tsunamis. What God has allowed into my life is also what gave me a passion for ministering to those who suffer through trauma.

We are in a time currently where people are experiencing massive trauma. We could gloss over it, but it wouldn’t be Christ-like to do that. Maybe you’re not concerned about current events and the far-reaching effects, but for others who have been personally touched, their world has been turned into a whirlwind.

Trauma is a time to offer practical comfort along with our Scriptures that we so easily toss out there. I’m all about the Bible (anyone who knows me knows that), but what good is knowledge without hands of ministry to make it real in someone’s life? Trauma is a time where we need to bring life to those words we’ve memorized.

We’re a bit more limited with our social distancing, but that doesn’t mean we’re helpless. Don’t say, “If you need anything, just let me know!” When someone is overwhelmed by a crisis or traumatic event, just put your creative thinking cap on and help without burdening them more.

Do you know someone who is ill and quarantined? Drop some necessary groceries on their doorstep while keeping yourself safe. Someone who is out of work or struggling financially? Single parents? Send a gift card for gas or groceries. Someone who is afraid? Send them an encouraging message. Someone needs a meal? Call a restaurant and have one delivered to them. Someone who lives alone? Call to check on them. Someone needs supplies? Send Amazon to their door with a few supplies.

We live in a day and age where the opportunities to help someone are endless and convenient. And while it can be a material item, it doesn’t have to be. People need emotional support just as much. We can give the gift of prayer that reaches far beyond any physical limitations. You aren’t called to do the same thing as I am doing, but we are all called to do something. We shouldn’t be letting people suffer alone. We have a responsibility to each other in the Lord.

And last but surely not least, offer hope. With all I’ve been through, I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that we have a God who heals. We are not helpless, and we are not hopeless. God does keep his promises. He does restore. He will calm the storm. He has not abandoned us. And after all is said and done, he will redeem the pain for our good and his glory. Offer a hand of hope. Be the light.

Hope eternal, my friends. Hope eternal.