Prayers for Joplin- and we're not talking about Janis

Joplin, Joplin, Joplin...I pray for Joplin today- and for a few reasons...

I pray for Joplin's survivors...that as they mourn their losses of both loved ones and possessions, they'll be cognizant of the Almighty responsible for both good and bad. I pray Joplin prays today.

I pray for Joplin's missing...praying that their numbers of "unaccounted for" will dwindle and that heavy Joplin hearts may at last rest in being able to lay their loved ones to rest.

I pray that a tornado won't define Joplin. I pray that Joplin's people will only allow their responseto a tornado to be a lasting testament to their resolve and heart.

Joplin...Tuscaloosa...The home of my beloved Crimson Tide is still known for her people- but in latter days better known for heart that lies outside Bryant-Denny Stadium rather than inside it. I pray for the days ahead... when perusers of Wikipedia will once again search "Joplin" and arrive to consider the tragedy in the loss of one life in Janis' rather than the losses of many in a tough Missouri town.

Stay tough, Joplin, Missouri- and show the world what Show Me State toughness really means.