KATRINA - Where Was God??

GOD IS WHERE?

How do you explain sadness? How do you make sense out of suffering? Why are we so surprised when evil triumphs? Why do bad things happen to good people? So many questions — so few answers.

What have you said to your congregation — to your children — to yourself — when the question comes up, "Where was God during Hurricane Katrina?"?

I have heard people say that the hurricane was allowed because of man's rebellion or even, as one man wrote, because President Bush supported the removal of the Jews from Gaza. Is that your kind of God? I don't begin to understand how God works, but I do know He is always love. Kenneth Samples wrote, "While God's universe is majestic and eloquently designed to provide humankind with a fine habitat on Earth, it can also be a powerfully dangerous place at times." (Christian Wire Service)

We warn our children all the time that life can never be taken for granted — that we must guard and revere it. Nature has proven difficult to control or even predict. "Don't mess with Mother Nature." We respect it, and take great strides to plan for it.

I don't understand God's ways, but I trust Him. I remember reading once where C.S. Lewis, in deep despair over the loss of his wife, cried out to God, "Why?" The answer He received was, "Son, even if I could explain it to you, you would not understand. It would be like attempting to teach physics to a 4-year-old." We just trust Him — even when the answers don't always emerge!

I saw God in the brave men and women rescuing their countrymen from a rooftop — giving cold water to a stranger — manually operating a ventilator when the power was off — helping a helpless child find his mother. Do you know when I see God in the hurricane? When men and women like you put your own needs aside in the interest of your flock and you love, even as Christ has loved you. "Whatever you did for one of the least of these" ... God was there.

I'll never understand it, but I pray I never stop trusting His unmistakable control.

Have a blessed weekend. —HB London