Wind and Waves Raging

In the past few weeks, thousands around the globe have been traumatized by powerful hurricanes in the Atlantic and typhoons in the Pacific that have caused tremendous devastation and suffering. Numerous islands in the Caribbean were pummeled by two Category 5 hurricanes in a row, and officials have described the after-storm conditions as “apocalyptic,” as thousands lost homes and were left without power, water or a means of communication with the outside world (CNN.com, September 24, 2017). According to the experts, “The year 2017 is set to be the stormiest year on record as forecasters are warning of flooding and travel disruption this autumn. A total of seven named storms [some with hurricane-force wind gusts] have been forecast to hit Britain’s shores by Christmas”—up from three last year and five in 2015 (The Telegraph, September 17, 2017). Many expect this to be the most expensive hurricane season on record for the U.S. and many other nations (New York Times, September 19, 2017).

Jesus Christ prophesied that one of the signs of the end of the age would be “the sea and the waves roaring” (Luke 21:25). While this prophecy is referring to a time yet ahead, we should expect to see greater frequency and intensity of ocean storms as the end of the age approaches. The Bible indicates that God is going to use the weather to get the attention of a world in need of repentance. For more on this pertinent topic, read or listen to Who Controls the Weather?