"Hear my cry, O
God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as
my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have
been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. I long to dwell in your tent forever
and take refuge in the shelter of your wings. For you, God, have heard my vows;
you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name." (Psalm 61:1-5
NIV)
It is difficult to
be calm with a 16 minute warning of impending disaster. I can't imagine the
agony of parents and family awaiting news of missing children and relatives.
Despite our faith in God, we still get very uncomfortable and scared when the
natural elements rage around us.
Our emotional and psychological stress
increases exponentially the closer we are to the disaster. Inevitably, out of
the depth of our shock and sorrow, we ask "why?" and like Job, it is
not explained to us. Perhaps a better consideration might be, "How will I
respond?"
It would be the
epitome of arrogance for me to offer a pre-packaged, "pat" answer to
such a horrendous event as has been
experienced in Oklahoma, USA this week. Once again we are confronted with
questions and issues that require a choice. They move us closer to God or
farther away from him.
Our response is
determined by what we believe and accept as reality. Did God do this? Did the
devil do this? Were the natural elements simply groaning to be released? Is
there a scientific and philosophical explanation? Perhaps an explanation isn't
necessary at all. Maybe a simple faith in the Almighty God is enough.
When we can't
explain the storms, both natural and otherwise, a firm faith in God is the safe
response. When disaster strikes, the safest place is the refuge of Scripture
and the comforting prayer support of family and friends.
Dear Father, thank
you for the refuge of your love and grace. Bring comfort and loving care to our
precious friends and families who are experiencing severe tragedies at this
time. Empower us with a strong and steadfast faith in you. I pray this in the name
of Jesus. AMEN
Take refuge in
Christ today,
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