Friday, I woke to the news that an earthquake measuring 8.9-9.0 on the Richter scale had hit Japan. Because the quake was under the sea, the sea floor was lifted by the quake, displacing the ocean water and causing a tsunami (tidal wave.)
Where is God in this?
Everywhere. Earthquakes and tsunamis are part of the creative process of the earth. I see God in the response of aid workers and the millions who support them in responding to the disaster.
If you would like to know more about plate tectonics, there is a wonderful interview with Xavier Le Pinchon at On Being with Krista Tippet.
Plate Tectonics and Human Experience
Le Pinchon is a man of great faith and learning.
As faithful people, we acknowledge that we live in a world not of our making, a world that was creating and is still being created. We love safety but in this world there is not complete safety. Knowing that the world has floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis, we can build the best we can to create the safest communities possible.
Fortunately, Japan had taken earthquakes seriously, having strict building codes that prevented the pancaking of the buildings and even more death than has happened. This is an intelligent response to living in a world where we cannot control everything. We can control what we do, what we build and where we live, up to a point. The only way I know of surviving a tsunami is to head for higher ground.
We remember in prayer all those affected by this disaster, as well as the aid workers. If you want to help, there are many ways to help. Church World Services has a website telling how to make Hygiene kits and is accepting monetary donations, as is the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance and the American Red Cross.
Hope Talks 