Spring 2011 in San Diego began with a heavy downpour and, for many, a heavy heart.
San Diegans, like most of the world, watch as Japan’s catastrophe unfolds into a trail of tragedy. Broken lives. Bleak future.
But to San Diegans, this drama is also personal—and not just because of the Japanese population living in San Diego who are mourning their country’s pain, but also because of potentially imminent nuclear danger.
San Diego is, after all, earthquake country. Aside from the regular earthquakes (which are so frequent, most locals barely notice them), one cannot ignore the ever-threatening “biggy” which could occur at any time and possibly cause as much chaos as this present calamity in Japan.
Almost a year ago, a 7.2 quake rattled the southern coastline, reminding locals once again that the “biggy” is lurking. Damage was relatively insignificant—particularly in light of the previous earthquake in Haiti—but it still served as a prompt restating that Southern Californians walk on precarious ground.
One recurring concern surrounds the San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant. Is it truly stable? Could it survive the “biggy”? Experts say yes, it’s fine. But is it really? Isn’t that what experts said regarding the nuclear plants in Japan before the earthquake struck?
And then there’s the cloud of radiation floating in from Japan. Experts say it contains harmless quantities of radiation. But is this true? Or is it just wishful thinking? After all, who really knows what the long-term effects will be on produce and whatnot? (Who knows if the heavy rainfall will impact the problem by causing the ground to absorb more radiation or if it will dilute it…)
With so many questions in the minds of San Diegans this Spring, many will no doubt find their comfort in the steadfast truths of the Bible and its invitation to trust God during tribulation.
God wants us to put our faith in Him regarding our yesterdays (which He has forgiven), our present (which He wants to guide) and our future (which He holds in His loving hand).
Whatever lurks around the corner, Jesus mandates for this hour are clear:
“Let not your heart be troubled…” (John 14:1).
“…be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Matthew 24:44).
“Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is” (Mark 13:29).
There's no better time than Spring 2011 to watch and pray.
Janey L. DeMeo M.A.
Copyright © March 2011
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