Where is God when natural disasters
strike?
Though disasters such as earthquakes, fires, cyclones,
tornadoes, floods, hurricanes and other nature-related events are often referred
to as “acts of God,” which test our faith, God does not will natural disasters
to punish us or get our attention. The laws of nature are simply at work.
When such disasters wreak untold harm and loss of
human life, we are challenged to find God in the midst of suffering and devastation.
Such a search can reveal God’s presence among us as One who suffers with us and
is present to us. Such moments can purify our faith by opening us more to the
depths of the mystery of who God is.
When we witness small miracles, the generosity
and selflessness of others, the healing comfort of strangers, God is present. Prayer
is our natural response to these tragedies and our concern and care for the victims
reveals God’s presence among us.
Prayer
Compassionate God, we pray for those who have been devastated by recent
fires and other natural disasters. We remember those who have lost their lives so
suddenly.
We hold in our hearts the families forever changed by grief and loss.
Bring them consolation and comfort. Surround them with our prayers for
strength.
Bless those who have survived and heal their memories of trauma and
devastation. May they have the courage to face the long road ahead of
rebuilding.
We ask your blessing on all those who have lost their homes, their
livelihoods, their security and their hope.
Bless the work of firefighters,
relief agencies and those providing emergency assistance.
May their work be
guided by the grace and strength that comes from You alone. Help us to respond
with generosity in prayer, in assistance, in aid to the best of our abilities.
Keep our hearts focused on the needs of those affected, even after the crisis
is over. We ask this in the names of Jesus and Mary. Amen.
by Sister Katherine Feeny, SND
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