Nature, Disaster, and the Bible

          Amidst an autumn of destruction (Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the Pakistan earthquake) following soon after a cataclysmic tsunami, people have inevitably begun to ask Why (with a capital W). Folks of Biblical faith look for explanations in scripture-and sometimes cite ancient prophecies, or the wrath of God.

          In a recent issue of The Christian Century, renowned Bible scholar Walter Brueggemann offers the view that there is no single explanation to be found for disasters of "Biblical proportions." In fact, he finds four Biblical teachings about natural destructiveness, depending upon where we look in scripture: one, that storms, etc. are an indication of moral judgment (we're all familiar with that one); two, that they are evidence that the power of chaos still breaks out in places in spite of God's power; three, that they are exhibits of God's greatness, pure and simple; and four, that ultimately God prevails in order to sustain life and keep it safe.

          While it is a human need to search for explanations, and in the case of people of faith, explanations from God, the Biblical evidence leads us to avoid simple answers-and to remind one another that God's universe continues to be a vast mystery, in which our main role is not to explain, but to worship.

          It's for certain, though, that if the Biblical prophets were among us today, they would be urging us to tend to our human responsibility as God's free-willed creatures. This means seeking to bring grace and justice into those situations where people have been seriously harmed. It also means recognizing that we have a responsibility to care for earth and the environment in which all God's creatures live.

          One result of recent disaster is that the coming winter may be a hard and costly one, especially for those whose resources are limited to begin with. Our upcoming Auction (November 12) is a good and enjoyable way to build up our church resources for responding to those in need.

          Another Biblical truth is that God's people are called to worship and trust, no matter what. A season of thanksgiving is here again. Let's gather to give thanks, both in our sanctuary and with other faith traditions in the community, and let's pour out a generous response to the Spirit's presence as we dedicate our stewardship of treasures and talents for the coming year.

Peace,

Rod