The power of weather.

Hurricane Irene plowed a destructive path up the east coast of the United States and into Canada last weekend, causing billions of dollars in damage and leaving millions without power.  Although the storm was a “low” category hurricane, it was large and moved through some of the most densely populated areas of the nation—potentially impacting more than 65 million people.

Over 2.5 million people were evacuated from low-lying areas across several states.  More than half-a-million people were evacuated from New York City alone.  Thankfully, damage in the densely populated areas was far less than forecasted (www.msnbc.com, August 27, 2011).

The evacuation of 2.5 million people brings to mind a prophecy that God made against the Israelite-descended nations who choose to reject Him at the end of the age.  “I will set My face against you… you shall flee when no one pursues you” (Leviticus 26:17).  Millions of people fled the storm last weekend and most found little damage when they returned to their intact dwellings.  Although the evacuations were probably a “wise call” by local authorities, it is still sobering to see people flee when no one is chasing.

One day soon, Jesus Christ will return and say again to the wind and waves, “Peace, be still” (Mark 4:39), and they will listen.  No more major storms will terrify people, or destroy their property, because God will be the feared, loved, and respected “Protector” of all!