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A Time to Pray

Responding to Disasters with Faith and Unity


My heart aches as I reflect on the devastation caused by the wildfires burning in the Los Angeles area. Images and videos of the loss of exquisite buildings—churches, senior residences, and even the grand homes of celebrities—all burned to ashes flooded social media. I live fifty miles away, yet the strong Santa Ana winds seem to carry the scent of smoke through the arid, dry air, making it almost tangible. As I watched these moving scenes unfold, I felt both great grief and a strong call to action.

Senior facilities were badly destroyed, forcing elderly residents to seek refuge in other care centers. Wildlife suffered as well; baby deer and cubs were observed wandering aimlessly through the streets, confused and displaced. These images stayed with me, emphasizing how tragedies affect every aspect of creation and transcend all boundaries.

The fire did not just consume buildings—it tore through the heart of communities, leaving people grappling with profound loss and uncertainty. Pastor DiHan Lee, who was also affected by the fire, shared on Instagram: “What matters most is not what you own but who you love.” His words, paired with his prayers for the community, helped me see how such tragedies strip away the surface and force us to confront life’s most important truths. People stood weeping over the ruins of their homes and churches—poignant symbols of the fragility of life and the incredible resilience of faith.

Earlier this month, the earthquake in Tibet, which left countless people homeless and villages destroyed, also deeply moved me. These events force us to ask: Why? Why do such disasters happen? Why all the wars, natural calamities, and suffering? While the answers can sometimes feel inadequate, resources I’ve discovered—including those from GotQuestions.org—offer useful biblical insights.

As we enter 2025, the world continues to face a range of challenges that demand both resilience and compassion. Even as we move beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, the lingering pain and ongoing recovery test our faith and resolve. These times are a clarion call for Christians to seek God’s wisdom, unite in prayer, and live out his love in action.

A Biblical Perspective on Tragic Events

The Bible tells us that creation itself has been groaning as it waits for redemption (Romans 8:22). Human conflicts and natural disasters alike reflect the brokenness of a world in need of Christ’s restoration. As believers, we are called not only to endure but also to be a light in the darkness.

Before his return, Jesus warned his disciples about tragedies, describing them as “birth pains” (Matthew 24:7–8). Yet, he also calls us to be his hands and feet, bringing hope and compassion to a hurting world. Our response, anchored in faith, demonstrates the power of God to transform ashes into beauty (Isaiah 61:3).

While these tragedies remind us of the brokenness of the world, they also highlight the strength and resilience of faith communities, which have often thrived amid adversity.

Reflecting on COVID-19

Even though the world is now in a post-pandemic phase, the lessons of COVID-19 remain relevant. It was a time that revealed both the fragility and strength of human systems, underscoring our dependence on God. The series God’s Work in China During COVID Lockdowns captures stories of divine provision, resilience, and unity amid the lockdowns. These testimonies remind us that God’s presence and purpose never waver, even in isolation.

This perspective on God’s faithfulness is especially crucial as we face current challenges, including natural disasters like fires and earthquakes. Reflecting on past trials equips us to navigate the present with hope and faith.

A Call to Prayer

As Christians, we must cling tightly to prayer. Prayer is both a gift and a necessity in times of crisis. As James 5:16 affirms, the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. Let us come together as a global body of Christ in this season of uncertainty:

  1. For victims of recent disasters: Pray for comfort and provision for those affected by the earthquake in Tibet, the wildfires in California, and other tragedies around the world.
  2. For the vulnerable: Lift up communities still recovering from COVID-19 as well as those facing ongoing social or economic challenges. Reflect on the global prayers of Chinese Christians, as documented in Christians in China Praying for the World.
  3. For the Church: Pray for strength and creativity as churches find new ways to serve their communities and share the gospel amid continuing crises.
  4. For leaders and decision-makers: Ask for wisdom and discernment as they navigate complex issues, from disaster recovery to public health.

To explore how faith and prayer foster resilience, read  Faith in Fragile Times and Faith Tested, Faith Strengthened.

Building Resilience Together

Resilience is not just about endurance; it is about thriving through dependence on God and mutual encouragement. Articles such as Resilience and Renewal and Learning to Love after the Earthquake provide insights into how faith communities build resilience through love, support, and reliance on God’s promises.

Practical steps to develop resilience include:

  1. Strengthening community: Deepen relationships within your church to create networks of support. For example, one church organized weekly prayer gatherings that also served as check-ins for emotional and material support.
  2. Encouraging preparation: Equip yourself and your community to respond wisely to future crises. Hosting disaster preparedness workshops can empower communities to act quickly and decisively.
  3. Partnering in ministry: Support initiatives and organizations that bring hope and relief to those in need. Consider collaborating with ministries dedicated to disaster relief.

A Unified Response

As we reflect on recent events, let us not lose sight of the hope we have in Christ. Whether praying for those in need, recovering from the challenges of COVID-19, or responding to a natural disaster, our unity as believers demonstrates the redemptive power of God. Together, we can be a beacon of hope, drawing others to the One who is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1).

I welcome your thoughts and reflections—let’s engage in a meaningful dialogue. How has your faith guided you through difficult times? How might you share that hope with others who need it? Let us shine the light of Christ everywhere, offering hope, resilience, and love to a hurting world.

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Image credit: NoonVirachada by Adobe Stock
Andrea Lee

Andrea Lee

Andrea Lee serves as the Content Manager at ChinaSource. Originally from Taiwan, Andrea holds a BA in Chinese Language and Literature from Tunghai University and an MA in Comparative Literature from SOAS, University of London. With extensive experience in Chinese Christian ministries and editorial work, she focuses on building and maintaining …View Full Bio


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