Where is God in a disaster? I do not believe God sends storms and other disasters to punish or teach lessons. While one can make a case from Scripture that God does that, science has revealed insights about nature that were unknown in biblical times. I reject the premise that God causes catastrophes.
I believe God is present during a disaster through the people who rush in to rescue. There are the first responders who work for agencies and organizations charged with such missions. But there are also strangers who see a need and dash in to help in whatever ways they can.
Mr. Fred Rogers said it best: “When I was a boy, and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”
That is also where you’ll find God in a disaster.
Where is God? With the helpers.
This message is excerpted from “When faith in God means doing something” by Kathryn Haueisen in the November 9, 2017, blog of the Women of the ELCA.
Copyright © 2024 Women of the ELCA. Inquiries for permission to reproduce should be directed to [email protected]. If you enjoy this resource, Donate Now.