Thoughts about the Tsunami

The past couple of days have been a whirlwind of emotion as we learn about the tragedy in the South and at the same time experience an outpouring of love from all of you. Many of you have been such a great encouragement as you show us your concern and desire to pray for those in need. Chris and I do feel thankful to be alive as we just returned from Malaysia on the 24th. Our hearts break to hear of all the tragedy and feel we are so close yet so far away. We want to be of help to those in need right now but feel we can offer nothing but our prayers. Phuket is the main place that was affected in Thailand. Nearly forty percent of Phuket's yearly revenue comes from the tourist industry so it is sad to think of what might come of it. Many of the Christians here in Chiang Mai have expressed their thoughts regarding the Tsunami. Some believe that Phuket is the city of sin here in Thailand and the wrath of God was poured out just like Sodom and Gamora.

Our first thought was that everyone didn't care about what happened. The day we heard the news about the Tsunami it seemed like noone was talking about it or expressing any concern. We thought it was odd that everyone was going on with their normal business when thousands of lives were being taken. After awhile we realized that their view of life is different. The Buddhist mindset says that everyone has to accept the way things are because it is the result of good or bad karma. You just have to sort of go with the flow and "keep a cool heart" when things go wrong. Jai yen yen they say. Many of our girls have expressed their concern for the people of the South. They have said they feel so sad for the people in the South.

As you are reminded of this tragedy reading the news and listening to the news, please pray for the thousands of families that are experiencing immeasurable grief. His will, not ours be done. May we be reminded of His coming Kingdom and long for His return.