"We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time."
Romans 8:22
Last night the reality of the fact that the world that we live in is imperfect and is not our permanent home became much more real to us. At 6:41pm Peru time, Peru experienced one of the worst earthquakes the country has seen in recent times. The quake, now being recorded as having a magnitude of 8.0 shook buildings in Lima and other coastal areas, with the Ica region being the worst hit. At present the death toll has risen to almost 500 but with many people trapped under collapsed buildings it is expected to rise. Some regions are still without electricity, communications and running water while other regions have been cut off from the rest of the country as some major roads have virtually been split in two by the quake.
Fortunately Arequipa and the regions that Baptist Missions work in did not suffer much in terms of damage and no lives were lost in these areas however many of our friends here in Arequipa have relatives and friends in these areas and to date they have been unable to get in touch with them. It is a particularly distressing time for them.
We ask you to pray for the people who have lost family and friends and for others who have lost homes. In one city it was reported that 60% of the homes there had collapsed in the quake. As we watch the news and see bodies being lined up in the streets it is hard to understand this situation, however we would ask you to pray that Peru would realise that this earth is "groaning" and is an imperfect dwelling place for us but that God is building a mansion in heaven for those who trust in Him.
For more information on the earthquake: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/6949984.stm
For pictures of some of the worst affected areas:
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5 comments:
Good to know you guys are safe and well. Have been praying for you and will continue to remember the situation.
Yes, its a relief to know you are well. Just this week I spoke to the prayer meeting about a frustrated creation, now you have experienced it. We will continue to remember you in prayer.
Praying for you guys here in Canada. I am sure that God use this opportunity to show you new ways to be the church in Peru. May he help you mourn with those who mourn, give comfort where there is need comfort, and share the compassion & mercy of Christ with the people in your lives.
So glad that you are all safe and well following the quake. We were on holiday in Italy when we heard, and followed SkyNews with close interest in the days following.
The people of Ica, Pisco and Lima will be especially in our thoughts and remembrance.
Continuing to pray for you as a family.
Thank you all for your concern, and prayers since the earthquake. We really appreciate it and know that the believers here are always encouraged to know that people on the other side of the world remember them.
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