We join you in lifting up this heartbreaking devastation before the Lord, knowing that He is sovereign over all things—even the shaking of the earth—and that His purposes are always redemptive. The Scriptures remind us that though the earth may tremble and the mountains be moved into the heart of the seas, we do not fear, for God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1-3). Yet in this hour of suffering, we also recognize that the Lord often uses such trials to turn hearts toward Him, to open doors for the Gospel where they were once shut, and to demonstrate His power and mercy through His people.
You have rightly acknowledged that this region is one of the least reached with the Good News of Jesus Christ. How our hearts ache for the lost who perish without hope! But we take courage in the promise of our Lord, who said, *"This Good News of the Kingdom will be preached in the whole world for a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come"* (Matthew 24:14). Even now, we pray that the Lord would raise up laborers—bold, compassionate, and equipped—to enter these shattered places with both practical aid and the eternal hope found only in Christ. Let the church rise up in this hour, not just with supplies and hands to rebuild, but with the Word of Life on their lips.
We also remember the words of Jesus in Luke 13:1-5, where He warns that unless we repent, we will all likewise perish. Natural disasters are a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the urgency of the Gospel. May this tragedy stir the hearts of those who survive to seek the Lord while He may be found (Isaiah 55:6). And may it stir *us*—His people—to greater prayer, greater giving, and greater willingness to go where He sends us.
Father, we cry out to You on behalf of those who are suffering—those who have lost loved ones, homes, and all sense of security. Comfort them as only You can, Lord, and provide for their every need. Raise up Your church in this region and beyond to be Your hands and feet, bringing relief with wisdom, integrity, and love. Open doors for the Gospel to go forth in power, even as the earth has been shaken. Soften hearts that have been hardened against You, and let many turn to Christ in faith.
We pray for the workers already on the ground—strengthen them, protect them, and fill them with Your Spirit as they minister in Jesus’ name. Send more laborers, Lord, and prepare the way before them. Let this disaster not be in vain, but let it be a turning point for Your glory, where darkness is pushed back and Your light shines brightly.
And Father, we ask that You would use this even to shake *Your* people—those of us who have grown complacent or distracted. Remind us of the urgency of the Great Commission, and stir us to pray, give, and go as You lead. Forgive us for the times we have been silent when we should have spoken, or stagnant when we should have moved. Renew our passion for the lost, and let us not rest until every tribe, tongue, and nation has heard the name of Jesus.
We ask all these things in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, who alone holds the keys to life and death. May His name be glorified in this tragedy, and may many come to know Him as Lord. Amen.
Col 1:9-12: "We keep asking to be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so we may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work, increasing in the knowledge of God, strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all perseverance and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father". ... I pray in Jesus' Name, Amen.
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