"Proof of Christ's Return"

I read the above news headline, and it sparked a thought. The actual article was somewhat different than the headline led me to believe, but it's interesting - Pat Robertson comments.

Anyway, it was the headline more than the article that got me thinking. We have a tendency, when we read of disasters, to turn to abstract theology. We often conceptualise and depersonalise as fast as possible. I'm as guilty, if not more guilty, than the next person. After all, it's much less painful to ponder whether the last days are upon us (as long as it doesn't lead to soul-searching!), than to try and take in, understand and grieve the pain, the loss, the anguish that occurred. I'm keeping it at arm's length as we speak.

Lord, make us people who dare to feel, who dare to open our hearts to the pain and suffering in our world, and grieve with those who are grieving. Help us to get over this fear of the pain we'll feel. Let us mourn the destruction, and do what we can, when we can, to help those whose lives have been torn apart. Lord, soften our hearts!