Look for the Helpers

When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers.  You will always find people who are helping.”  To this day, especially in times of disaster, I remember my mother’s words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers….so many caring people in this world.       Fred Rogers

There is a tendency in our world  to say that times are becoming more and more violent and scary and after hearing the news from Boston yesterday, it is tough to dispute that, however, I am a Christian.  And as Christians, we can be a great example of positive thinking. 

The power of good to overcome evil is real.  Sometimes we have to look for it more carefully.  In the tragedy that occurred in Boston yesterday, throughout the afternoon, the common report across the news networks was of the bravery and unselfishness of the folks who decided to respond instead of run.  Soldiers who were in attendance to watch the race, went immediately to the local hospital to give blood.  They then returned to the area of the explosions to assist however they could.  Marathon runners reportedly ran a mile and a half further upon finishing the race so that they could donate blood.  Some runners helped to carry the wounded. These folks needed medical attention themselves after completing a marathon and literally went the extra mile.  Imagine if the report was “Two Explosions at the Boston Marathon, And no one responded.”

A few rotten individuals might have tried to hurt the crowds at the Boston Marathon, but a multitude of people came to help.  I am sure a scientist might try to prove away God’s presence in this story by telling us that it is the “benevolent gene” that causes us to help a stranger in a time of need, but I think I know better. I think this is God’s presence and God’s goodness at work.  Just think of a tragedy that happened in our lifetime and you’ll see more goodness in the response.  This is goodness overcoming evil.