Tragic Winds

by Joyce Sykes
Published November 30, 2006

A few days ago tragedy struck just a few miles from my small community. In a matter of seconds, homes were destroyed, belongings scattered, but most of all, eight lives were lost in the deadly storm. The news has been broadcast both far and near, yet to often it is simply a ‘That’s so sad’ moment to many who hear about the calamity.

Through out that day everyone in this area listened closely to the news, some had family; others had friends or acquaintances in the region. As Christians, both near and far, saw the news, countless prayers were lifted before the throne of grace. We cried out for protection as the storm ravaged the area; then mercy for the ones in the direct path of the rapid moving storm. As the reality hit that there were loss of life, we cry out for strength for the ones left behind.

People, not directly connected to that area; quickly forget the tragedy and move on to the next story or event. Yet what of those left behind. Who were they? How were they affected by this one small but lethal storm? Who is left to mourn their life? Were these individuals followers of Jesus?

Although I personally did not know anyone that died that day, my heart still grieves. Friends I know are praying for the countless others who were directly affected by this one event. Some of the stories coming out of the area are heartbreaking and unimaginable to many of us.

A young father, intent on carrying his two-year old daughter to safety, lost his life, as did his father and step-mother. A little girl lies in a hospital, not understanding why and where her daddy is. Another woman has lost her son, daughter and grandson. A father has lost his son and daughter-in-law. A young boy has lost both of his parents, and struggles to survive his injuries. Neighbors have not only seen everything they own destroyed but lost beloved neighbors as well. A group of volunteer fire-fighters no longer have the comfort of knowing a comrade is near.

Teachers have lost students or have some critically injured, and students have lost homes. Pastors have lost congregational members and are left with the task of not only mourning themselves, but trying to comfort those left behind. Brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, parents, children, cousins, and friends are all in mourning. Some for more than one loved one.

Yet our hearts do not understand ‘Why?’ Nothing makes sense. No matter how we try, we can not fathom the reason for this. Nevertheless, in countless countries through out the world, sons and daughters fall in battle daily. Others waste away in land filled only with famine and death. Their loved one asks why as well. As I prayed for the survivors this morning, I found myself asking ‘Why, Lord?’ In reality, there were no clear cut answers.

However, He brought comfort to my heart in know that He is still here. He comforts our hearts just as He did Job so long ago. His loving arms are wrapped around us just the same as King David when his son died. He reassured Naomi of His Presence when all of the men in her life were gone. He calmed the raging sea, as His fearful disciples trembled in the night.

This same loving Father is with each of us when tragedy strikes. We can feel that divine love in the hug of a friend or by the phone call that we are in someone’s thoughts. No matter how He brings that touch of reassurance, we can rest in the knowledge that He will never leave us, nor forsake us. What a wonderful promise! That promise is for each of us who are called as sons and daughters of the Most High God.

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