Earthquakes and tsunamis

Last night, I happened upon a documentary on the earthquake and tsunami damage in Japan. Normally I would've just changed the channel to one of my "shows." Instead, I just sat there and was in awe of the intricate design of God's creation, the earth. Science has always been fascinating to me so it was interesting to hear what scientists had to say about everything. I had no idea that there were over 500 aftershocks in Japan, some were even greater intensities than the initial one!

After looking at a map of the plate tectonics lying beneath Japan, I counted not 2, not 3, but SIX plates! The pressure released by the movement of one plate caused the earthquake and the movement of the ocean floor created the waves of the tsunami. The release of pressure from one plate probably created more pressure onto one or more of the neighboring plates. To me, Japan sounds like a ticking time bomb!

I'm definitely no expert, but have always seemed to love geology. I wondered why I never pursued that.....

Anyway, watching video footage of the tsunami acting like a big glacier, tearing up the city beneath it and gaining more power as it pulled more of the wreckage into its path, I struggled with my emotions. The scene captivated me. I couldn't imagine people being in there. Yet, they showed the aftermath and how the Japanese were putting flags in the mud and debris to mark the deceased. I was so saddened and still can't imagine what those people are going through. It's so easy to forget about something that happened on the other side of the world. It's even easy to forget about something that happened yesterday. Talk about desensitization in our society. Sure, the newscasters will show some photos of homeless Japanese men and women amid the aftermath. We'll feel bad for them, but will we really think about how their world literally came crashing down on them? Sometimes I feel helpless -- but then I'm reminded of the power of prayer.

Praying for the Japanese -- that this be a great opportunity to learn more about Jesus Christ and how God can provide for them and comfort them during this time of distress. May God soften the hearts of the Japanese and plant seeds of faith through any believers that they encounter. Lord, just be with these people. They need you so much right now.

*Sorry if this seemed so scattered. Some of my thoughts were lost from last night into today. Other thoughts just kept coming back and I needed to write them down. If you're reading this, please join me in continued prayers for Japan.