“As a hart longs for flowing streams, so longs my soul for thee, O God” (Ps. 42:1).
The Psalmist’s words of lament resonate deeply during this season of Lent, but especially this day as we witness the destruction from the devastating earthquake and resulting tsunami in Japan.
The magnitude of this kind of tragedy is difficult to grasp. Yet, our faith leads us to affirm that in even greater measure is the presence of God in the midst of the devastation.
Please join us in praying for those affected by these events – the victims and their families, those who wait for word from loved ones, those offering aid and comfort now and in the days and weeks to come, civic and national leaders, and faith communities in Japan that offer hope in a seemingly hopeless time.
The Psalmist’s final words are, “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise God, my help and my God” (Ps. 42:11).
May it be so.
Cynthia Bolbach, Moderator of the 219th General Assembly (2010)
Gradye Parsons, Stated Clerk of the General Assembly
Linda Valentine, Executive Director of the General Assembly Mission Council
For additional information and resources on the church’s response to the tragedy:
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance website
Thinking the Faith, Praying the Faith, Living the Faith blog