by Tim Finley, for the Christian Harness Horsemen’s Association

I am asking all Christian Harness Horsemen’s Association members to please pray for those of us (including our critters) in Florida who are preparing for Hurricane Frances.

Everyone’s attention right now is focused on preparedness, so I don’t think anyone has time to think about being afraid. But, when preparations begin to dwindle and we begin to concentrate on what could happen, we will begin to feel the anxieties that accompany the unknown.

Many in South Florida have pleasure horses that they keep on an acre or two with only minimal shelter, so the South Florida Trotting Center has opened its stalls to those in need — and there are many.

Fortunately most Standardbred people are in the northern U.S. racing, so there were about 350 available stalls, which are quickly being filled.

Most TV and radio stations are broadcasting nothing but information regarding Frances. Winds of up to 150 MPH are being anticipated, so mandatory evacuation has been ordered for 500,000. The lines in grocery stores, gas stations and home repair centers are a block long even though most of the things residents are seeking have been sold out.

Perhaps our Lord allows these situations so that we can show our love for one another.

God Bless you all and God Bless Florida.