Hurricane Katrina will go down as one of the greatest natural disasters that have ever occurred in the history of the United States. Katrina stirs up in me several thoughts that I would like to share with you.

1.     God is in control. That settles it! No political party or political leader and no environmental global warming policy could have prevented hurricane Katrina. Katrina was an “act of God.” Those who have no knowledge of God will seek all kinds of answers as to why this disaster occurred. Only fools take so much pride in their own knowledge and intelligence that they ignore God, his plans and purposes.  Scripture says, “The Lord know the thoughts of man; they are meaningless” (Psalm 94:11).

2.     I will never fully understand the ways of God. I am to bow to God in humility and trust his plans and purpose because I know they are perfect and not just some random chain of events that are caused by “mother nature.” Scripture says, “My heart is not proud, O Lord, my eyes are not haughty, I do not concern myself with great matters or things to wonderful for me”  (Psalm 131).

3.     I only see what amounts to a 5x7 snap shot of what God may be doing in the lives of those affected by the aftermath of Katrina. God works out his plans in numerous arenas of life. Countless stories will one day be told about how Katrina changed the lives not only of those living in the states effected by the storm, but those that have sacrificed to help those victims start their lives over again. Scripture say, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him” (Romans 8:28). God can work through these tragic circumstances to bring a blessing to his people.

4.     Many Christians will experience repentance and brokenness as they evaluate their lives before God. Many will count their blessings and thank God for his deliverance, others will experience personal revival, a renewed interest in the things of God. Unbelievers may grow bitter and blame God for their personal losses. Some have already committed suicide because of the apparent hopelessness that has resulted from losing so much. Still others may see the goodness of God in that he spared their lives.

5.     I believe that God weeps when God’s people suffer. And we know that Jesus weeps for the poor when they suffer hardships. This is a great opportunity for both churches and individual believers across the country not only to “talk the talk,” but to “walk the walk.” Thankfully, much is underway, as people are opening their hearts, resources, and doors to help those in need. Some of us can volunteer time to help, others are able to give financially, and all of us can pray. Please consider today how you may help those who are in such great need. This may be good time to ask the WWJD question, “What would Jesus do?”

Gary Williams

Chaplain