Haiti was struck by a devastating earthquake on 12January 2010, which resulted in widespread destruction, desolation, a death toll of 300 thousand people, pain, anguish and immense human suffering of unimaginable proportions.
The response of the international community to the catastrophe in Haiti was phenomenal in the rescue and relief efforts. The government and people of Jamaica in their immediate and initial response, also demonstrated the extent of our concern and care for the people of Haiti. However, the critics and cynics have lived up to expectations and have described this catastrophe and the suffering of the people as punishment from God! Even some people in Haiti were singing this tune. What is the source of this 'enlightenment' and 'revelation'? At the same time, however, one of the fundamental beliefs of Christianity is grace. A high ranking Jamaican official commented ''but for the grace of God, their disaster could have been ours''. Is it that the people of Haiti have not only fallen (like all humanity), from grace but also out of grace?
No Exceptions
Earthquakes although more likely to happen in certain regions and zones, can occur anywhere at anytime. Past occurrences in countries like the United States and Japan show that the rich industrialised countries are no exceptions. Darkness presents the opportunity for light to shine.
Whatever we think are the causes of this catastrophe, let's continue our relief efforts, and later, the process of reconstruction, knowing that
together we can, together with the Haitians we shall overcome.
DocoParco.
Thoughts.to.treasure@gmail.com
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