Himalayan Flood

A catastrophic flood was triggered when a large portion of a mountainous glacier broke free and initiated a massive land, ice, and water slide in Nepal last week. The event registered as a 5.2 seismic quake, but the most significant impact was in the valleys as waterways roared over their banks in moments, destroying towns, roads, and structures. More than 1,100 people are confirmed dead in the wake of the flooding, and the toll is rising rapidly, with more than 4,000 still missing. In addition to the dead and injured, tens of thousands are displaced, many of whom had their homes destroyed.

Search and rescue efforts continue in both Nepal and the adjoining Tibet region of China. Officials say the conditions are making it difficult to reach some of the hardest hit remote regions.

Analysis and eternal perspective: The near instantaneous nature of this massive and destructive event adds to the shock of it. Video footage from several locations in the region shows life as usual one moment and then utter devastation just a few seconds later.

There will be a great deal of material need in the impacted communities for some time as rescue and recovery eventually turns to rebuilding. For those able, there will be a significant need for volunteers and workers to invest in restoring some of what was lost. For those not able to physically go, there are and will continue to be many groups deploying to provide aid, comfort, and sustenance in the weeks and months ahead. Consider cheerfully supporting one of these efforts in accordance with 2 Corinthians 9:7. Every Jesus follower should also be praying for God’s hand of care and comfort to be with those who are suffering.

Finally, take a moment to consider the suddenness of this event. It calls to mind 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, which tells of a moment when many will have a sense of peace and safety, but “destruction will come on them suddenly.” The passage speaks not of a natural disaster like the one in this story, but of a final judgement. It further reminds Jesus followers to be unafraid of and unsurprised by this coming event, because our eternity is secure with Jesus.

So much of our daily stress and effort is aimed at things that will not last. A story like this, sobering and tragic as it is, can be a stark reminder to vest your energy in that which will not be stolen by a thief in the night.