March 20, 2011:

Ponderings of a Pilgrim PASTOR

“Compassion In the Midst of Tragedy”

The immense death and destruction from the recent Japanese earthquake and tsunami have stunned the world. Thousands are dead and survivors are struggling for existence. The damage to homes and businesses as well as public services will cost billions of dollars and take years to rebuild. Fears have also risen over Japanese nuclear power plants though the problem seems contained for the moment. In this country we are becoming aware that our own nuclear power plants are not as safe as they should be.

Almost every country in the world is offering some kind of aid to Japan. Both governments and private relief agencies are already on the scene. Many of us will be making special donations to help in this effort. It is wonderful to see the world united as one family though it is sad that it takes such a tragedy to make that happen. Still, compassion encourages compassion. Pray for Japan.

The Japanese people themselves have a rich tradition of helping one another. They see themselves as a family. When one suffers, all suffer, and all are expected to join together to overcome the pain and suffering.

I believe this is also true of Americans. Though there has been talk of "compassion fatigue" in recent years I have still heard of countless examples of people helping people. Despite the selfishness of those who would deny health care and other benefits to their fellow citizens, I still believe in the basic goodness of our people.

Tragedies such as this inspire generosity and compassion. No nation can exist without them. And neither can the world.

Love,
Pastor Dave