It was predictable. The “chattering atheist class is once again mocking those of us who believe in God,” writes Chuck Colson. In the wake of the earthquakes and tsunami, they ask: Why would our so-called good God permit such a catastrophe? Colson observes, “It’s amazing how much time some people spend railing against a God they don’t believe exists.”
My son, Jon, notes, Christianity isn’t for dummies. We don’t have to leave our brains at the door in order to have faith in a creator God. Look at what’s happening. The earth and the physical creation — reflecting its rational creator — is behaving according to observable laws. Observe these laws and principles, encourages Colson, and you’ll know much about plate tectonics and how earthquakes occur. They are a result of natural processes.
Can we stop earthquakes? No. But, as rational beings created in God’s image (although fallen to sin), we enjoy the opportunity to use the gifts of knowledge God has entrusted to us. We, as Colson points out, can use that knowledge and good sense. Perhaps we should not be so arrogant as to build cities on already-known fault lines. Or homes in hurricane zones.
When an earthquake, tsunami, or tornado claim the lives of thousands, can we complain that God let it happen? When a hurricane wrecks havoc in a community, can we question or blame God? No. “Hurricanes are a natural phenomenon that occurs because of climactic changes and shifting winds and temperature gradients,” notes Colson, “all of those things which can now be clearly demonstrated to be physical laws of the universe.” Has it always been this way? Nasty upheavals of the earth and killer storms?
No. Such things did not exist in the beginning. But, in a perfect Garden, man and woman rebelled against God. (I hear you atheists… go ahead and scoff.) When the created thought itself better than the Creator, sin entered the world. Now we live with the consequences of that sin: an earth in turmoil.
What can we do? Mourn with those who mourn. Love our neighbors as ourselves. Help those in need. Share our resources. Give up a new pair of shoes, a steak dinner, or a round of golf and send the money to world relief.
Then, listen.
Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who determined its measurements — surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone . . . Have you commanded the morning since your days began, and caused the dawn to know its place . . . Who has cleft a channel for the torrents of rain and a way for the thunderbolt . . . Can you bind the chains of the Pleiades or loose the cords of Orion . . . Shall a faultfinder contend with the Almighty? He who argues with God, let him answer it.”
(Job 38:4-6; 12; 25; 31; 40:1-2)
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