(Image Source: NY Daily News)

WRITTEN BY: KYLIE MCGIVERN

Hurricane Irene prompted the evacuation of more than 2 million people. Millions are left without power and the latest reports say at least 13 people are dead.

But among the swirling headlines, you can find Glenn Beck’s name - calling the devastating storm quote- “a blessing.”

Here’s a clip from his Friday radio broadcast:

“Food storage. Be prepared. Be somebody that can help others. You’ve heard me say this for years. People have made fun of me - that’s fine, I don’t care. I’ve been telling you, ‘Don’t be in a panic situation.’ If you’ve waited, this hurricane is a blessing. It is a blessing. It is God reminding you, as was the earthquake last week, it’s God reminding you, ‘You’re not in control.’”

You may not be in control, but the conservative radio host is making sure to control the message he’s sending. A Washington Post blogger writes -- Beck’s call is less about actual preparation, and more about pushing his religious views.

“Beck, one of Mormonism’s most famous converts, is actually touting one of the unique aspects of the Latter-day Saint faith: food storage... the command to ‘organize and establish a storehouse,’ which Mormon leaders have interpreted as a requirement to, when possible, ‘store and save a one-year supply of food.’”

Beyond sending religious messages through the airwaves, a blogger for Manolith says - don’t be fooled. The bottom line -- is money.

“...it encouraged people to hoard food. Glenn wants you to be a paranoid family on the block, so you’ll be more susceptible to buying his products.”

A blogger for Technorati points out -- if you go to foodinsurance.com you can find a picture of Glenn Beck, recommending the website. The company sells survival kits of freeze dried food designed to last months. The blogger continues..

“...the evidence is growing to suggest that the business of Glenn Beck is fear. Not just any fear, but an apocalyptic fear. A fear that is so great that your senses and your checkbook are helpless when faced with the persuasive words of Mr. Glenn Beck.”

Finally, a Gather blogger forecasts-- there’s really no weight in Beck’s words.

“As much as the Conservative Christian TV commentator turned Mormon tries to have his messages resonate to the masses, he is considered among other things, a ‘wolf in sheep's clothing.’”