Perspective on the Earthquake:

This from Joel Rosenberg, who provides an appropriate perspective on recent events:

Apocalyptic Earthquake, Tsunami Hit Japan

The Lord Jesus said that in the last days….
“there will be great earthquakes, and in various places plagues and famines; and there will be terrors and great signs from heaven….There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay among nations, in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, men fainting from fear and the expectation of the things which are coming upon the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.” (Luke 21:11,25,26)

“For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.” (Romans 8:22, KJV)

Today’s apocalyptic earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Japan reminded us yet again that the earth is groaning and we are, in fact, living in the last days before the return of Christ. The horrific disaster, whose proportions we are only beginning to understand, has already killed more than 1,000 people and left millions without power, food, or fresh water. Please be praying for the people of Japan for the Lord to comfort them and draw them close to His heart.

Please pray for the followers of Jesus Christ in Japan and throughout Asia to help their brothers and sisters and help those who need practical assistance as well as Christ’s promise of unconditional love and forgiveness. Pray, too, that people all over the world will realize that the Lord is trying to get our attention to turn back to Him and prayer for the Day of the Lord, which is coming soon.

My prayers have been similar - that somehow, someway, this epic event can bring people of the world, including Japan closer to Christ, or perhaps taking a deeper look at the world and seeking Christ as a result. Obviously we also pray for the people of Japan and that they can receive relief from their pain and suffering.

But Mr Rosenberg provides the central element always worth remembering during periods like this - when we observe an increase in birth pains:

Today’s apocalyptic earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Japan reminded us yet again that the earth is groaning and we are, in fact, living in the last days before the return of Christ.

And what are we to do in the midst of all of the signs around us?

"When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift your hands, because your redemption is drawing near." (Luke 21:28)

AMEN.