There have been many attempts to explain this horrible tragedy that has struck the southeastern states of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama – the hurricane is called “Katrina” and the flooding has been terrible. The loss of lives and the homelessness of thousands is greater than any tragedy in America history. President Bush was apparently overwhelmed at the extent of the damage. The government states that it will take months to rebuild and recover.
Our hearts go out to all those who suffered in this terrible disaster. The web sites on the internet are full of analysis and opinion, trying to make sense out of what happened.
Some have blamed the residents who chose to live in communities that were below sea level. That is heartless and unnecessary at this point and helps no one. Others have chosen to see this as a “natural disaster” that is the result of “global warming.” Environmentalists have leaped upon the opportunity to say “I told you so.” But, what could have been done to prevent this terrible disaster?
Some have pointed out that this hurricane occurred right before the annual “Decadence Parade” in New Orleans that yearly brings thousands of homosexuals to the affected areas. Some see it as a judgment of God upon the immorality of these gulf cities that have catered to the sinful desires of humanity and have paraded it before the world. Perhaps it is part of what happened, but we must leave that matter to God alone.
Others have made strong connection with the “disengagement plan” in Israel and the removal of Jewish families from Gaza and a few northern Samaria settlements. There have been strong words pointing to the timing of this event as it relates to what has recently transpired in Israel. Is there a connection? Again, only God knows!
But, perhaps the most important consideration deals with whether or not there is a God in the universe Who controls the weather and brings to pass such a devastating catastrophe. Psalm 29:3 says “The voice of the LORD is upon the waters…upon many waters.” Psalm 29:10 says “The LORD sitteth upon the flood.” Psalm 65:7 says “which stilleth the noise of the seas, the noise of their waves, and the tumult of the people.” Psalm 148:8 speaks of “stormy wind fulfilling His word.” Jeremiah 10:13 says: “When He uttereth His voice, there is a multitude of waters in the heavens, and He causeth the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth; He maketh lightnings with rain, and bringeth forth the wind out of His treasures.”
This Biblical evidence points to the control and will of God behind the so-called “natural disasters.” In the future, God will bring global disasters upon the earth (the Great Tribulation) and declare them to be His judgment and wrath against a world who has rejected Him.
The fact is that many innocent people (those who did nothing to bring on the judgment of God) throughout history have suffered because of what others have done. We regret that fact and will do what we can to help bring the relief that is so desperately needed. We also pray for the outreach of the true gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ to those who are suffering greatly from this tragedy. People need the Lord! Now more than ever!
It will take many weeks, months, and perhaps years, for this area of our country to recover. Americans have always been generous in times of tragedy and crisis – may it be so again. In the meantime, we all need to reflect upon the Biblical truth that God is still on His throne and yes, God does control the weather to accomplish His purposes. After all, it made these so-called “forces of nature” in the first place! Thanks for reading.
