In the Delta of Myanmar

Perhaps by now you have forgotten the devastating crisis the world recently faced — many of us have. In yet another land, beautiful young children have been orphaned. Young mothers held dying children in their arms. Elderly couples saw the history of their lives swept away by the winds and waters of a massive cyclone. Myanmar, once know as Burma, has seen the lives of over 80,000 people taken by the recent storm there.

Dozens of nations and a multitude of relief agencies offered immediate aid, but as the world’s attention turns so does much of its assistance. Even now, there are thousands of victims who have received no help. On the surface, it can seem there is little or nothing we can do months after the crisis. But in fact there is something we can do right now that will make a difference in saving lives.

For years, churches, missionaries and Christian relief agencies have been in Myanmar, demonstrating Jesus’ love by caring for the poor. These groups are in a pivotal position to provide solutions during this crisis. World Challenge has been in close contact with local churches and organizations in Myanmar, groups that are in desperate need of funding in order to procure necessary supplies even now. Food, water and medicines are still crucial. We have sent support to help feed orphans and to enable churches to provide food and water to their communities. We are also supporting doctors who are providing medical care for those affected by the storm.

Today, the world’s eyes have turned from the crisis in Myanmar, as is often the case with international disasters, and we have lost interest. The dire needs in Myanmar are still a reality, and vital opportunities to make a difference in this needy land cannot be lost. Now is the time for a sustaining drive in the long processes of rebuilding lives, finding homes for orphaned children, reestablishing farms and small businesses. We need to take a long-term position in providing care for these needs or they will go unmet. We cannot miss this opportunity to show the true nature of the kingdom of God.

By providing care, prayer and long-range support for Myanmar’s churches, we will both help with this crisis and play a longer role in helping bring the love of Jesus to a nation fiercely closed to the gospel. One hundred percent of your gifts earmarked for the Myanmar crisis will go directly to relief, to long-term rebuilding and to ministry support. We are blessed by your prayers and interest in such troubled times as these.