I am struck by the unprecedented natural disasters occurring all around the world right now. But amid my compassion for those who have lost treasured possessions, and some even their lives, I can’t help but wonder, is God trying to tell us something? Tragedy has a way of getting our attention and makes us re-think and re-direct the way our lives are going.
Natural disasters render us powerless and often yield tremendous loss, which makes us re-evaluate what is REALLY important. Facing the threat of death, you ask yourself, are things more important than your life? And how would you assess the worth and value of your life? Whose lives have you touched and made a difference in along the way? What are you holding or harboring that has created or continued breeches in your relationship with former friends and family? What do you think God is saying to you when you are stripped of everything but you?
The Bible verse that continues to ring in my head is, “The Earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof.” (Psalm 24:1) It’s a powerful message because it reminds us that everything, including us, belongs to God. We are just stewards of what He has given us. We have been allowed to possess it, manage it, and care for it, but it belongs to God. The question becomes, how are we treating that which He has entrusted to us? What value do we place on the lives He has surrounded us with?
Cancer taught me that what is REALLY important in life is relationships; first my relationship with God, who I can’t live without; and then the relationship with those He allowed to cross my path and enrich my life. In the end, it’s all about relationships and those relationships are all about love.
Nature reflects the existence of God, and is subjected to His commands – so should we.
Is God trying to tell us something? I certainly think so.
Peace and Blessings,
Gail