Even in Earthquakes and Tsunamis

 

God is our refuge and strength,

   a very present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear

though the earth gives way,

though the mountains be moved 

            into the heart of the sea,

though its waters roar and foam,

though the mountains tremble

           at its swelling.

                     Psalm 46. 1-3

(Some things never change:

   realization that

   life is often overwhelming

           but God is our only hope.

It is not in the absence of trouble

    that we know His Presence,

but right in the midst

    of despair and devastation.

It is in situations we can't handle

   that we call out to Him.

And He does not just show up.

God is already right here with us.

He alone is our refuge and strength.

We need not even attempt

           to do life alone.

He is our security,

    not favorable circumstances.

In Him,

         we can be still

   and know that He is God (46.10).

Fear only tries to distract us

       from that grand reality.)

O LORD,

Even when our lives shake,

 and the ground beneath our feet

                     gives out,

    we are secure in You.

Help us to learn to trust You

        in the ordinary days

        and familiar ways

  that we would know

     how to respond in the crisis.

You do not just beef up our courage,

  but You strengthen us 

                 with Your strength.

Empower us to know

   You have a strong hold on us.

Even now, even in this,

   we witness Your Presence,

not as a feeling,

    but an assurance

             beyond all odds.

Because odds

    have no power over You.

Help us

       to walk with You today.