Super quake hits Japan.

Last week, a 9.0 earthquake struck Japan, the strongest quake recorded to hit Japan. The quake destroyed structures on Japan’s north-east coast and damaged a nuclear power plant that is now releasing radiation. The quake generated a 30 foot-high tsunami that devastated coastal villages. As the tsunami sped west, it also impacted islands in the Pacific and coastal areas along the west coast of North, Central, and South America (USA Today, March 14, 2011, 1A).

Strong aftershocks have been felt since the quake, shaking buildings in Tokyo (Associated Press, March 16, 2011). More than 10,000 are presumed dead and more than half-a-million people have been displaced and are living in shelters (LA Times, March 14, 2011).

When Jesus was asked by His disciples what “signs” would indicate that the end of the age was near, He identified “earthquakes in various places” and that we would witness “the sea and the waves roaring…” (Luke 21:11, 25). We need to remember that Jesus also told His listeners, “do not be terrified; for these things must come to pass first, but the end will not come immediately” (Luke 21:9).

The Scriptures not only point out key events to watch for that will precede Christ’s return, but point to the hope beyond—the coming Kingdom of God. The devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan fit well into prophesied end-time events. For more information on this important topic, review our free booklet Fourteen Signs Announcing Christ’s Return.