The earthquake this last weekend in Indonesia and all the other events in that part of the world lately have continued my thinking on the topic of God’s judgment … after the tsunamis in December 2004, a professor pointed out that the majority of people who died were children, and he made the suggestion that perhaps this was God’s mercy, saving them from a life in Islam, Hinduism, or another pagan religion. Some recent discussions in a theology class coupled with these events have inspired much contemplation and many discussions.
Is it possible that all of these events (earthquakes, tsunamis, etc.) have happened in predominantly Muslim countries as a result of the sinfulness of that religion and the power it holds over the countries and cultures? God’s judgment on sinful nations is evident throughout the Old Testament. God waits for man to turn to him in his longsuffering grace, until the possibility of him turning back is exhausted (Genesis 15:16 – “the sin of the Amorites has not yet reached its full measure”) and it is time to deal with him (Deut 9:4 – “it is on account of the wickedness of these nations that the LORD is going to drive them out before you”). Before the flood God saw the wickedness and rebellion of the people on earth and exercised his judgment with that flood (Gen 6); he poured out his wrath on Sodom and Gomorrah because of their corruption and sin (Gen 18-19).
Is it possible that the sin of these nations and these religions has begun to “reach its full measure”?
Of course the United States is guilty of tremendous sin, corruption, and rebellion as well; yet a friend brought up New Orleans and hurricane Katrina, and the palpable immorality and evil of that city. Perhaps we should be expectant of more such “judgment,” and be praying more for our country, cities, and leaders, and for God’s mercy??
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