"Natural Disasters or Acts of God?"

"Natural Disasters or Acts of God?" is the title of an interesting blog by Dr. Gerald Kieschnick, the President of The Lutheran Church-- Missouri Synod.  Here it is.  What do you think?

"Are hurricanes, tornados, and earthquakes natural disasters or acts of God? This question is on the minds of many these days in the aftermath of the quake that struck Haiti last week, killing at least tens of thousands of people. It’s a question asked also by folks in the path of Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Ike, and many other destructive storms with names that now live in infamy. The Bible mentions such catastrophes in numerous places and contexts. According to my electronic Bible, “earthquake” is mentioned in 16 different sections of Scripture.

In one case God is described clearly as the sender: “And in an instant, suddenly, you will be visited by the LORD of hosts with thunder and with earthquake and great noise, with whirlwind and tempest, and the flame of a devouring fire” (Isaiah 29:5-6). In another case God, while very possibly or even likely still the sender, is distinctly separate from such powerful forces: “And behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire, a still, small voice …” (1 Kings 19:11-12).

Almighty God, merciful Father, your thoughts are not our thoughts, and your ways are not our ways. In your wisdom you have permitted a disastrous earthquake to befall the people and country of Haiti. Keep the survivors from despair and do not let their faith fail them, but sustain and comfort them. Direct all efforts to attend the injured, console the bereaved, and protect the helpless. Deliver any who are still in danger, and bring hope and healing, that they may find relief and restoration; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen."