Tsunami

This is one of the most compelling videos I've seen of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. This six-minute video of the tsunami is eery for many reasons, including the silence of the bystanders watching life washing away around them. I assume they are still alive because we have the footage now, but as I watched I kept wondering how the cameraman could shoot so steadily as his own life was threatened. 

[Update: The original video seems to have been removed. Here's an edited version of this film that the BBC posted.]

The origin of the word "tsunami" is actually Japanese, meaning "harbor wave." I've always pictured it as a giant wave, but this and other recent disaster footage makes it look more like an enormous surge. The power of moving water is incredible. It made me think of Psalm 93:

The LORD reigns; he is robed in majesty;
   the LORD is  robed; he has put on strength as his belt.
Yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved. Your throne is established from of old;
   you are from everlasting.

 The floods have lifted up, O LORD,
   the floods have lifted up their voice;
   the floods lift up their roaring.
Mightier than the thunders of many waters,
   mightier than the waves of the sea,
   the LORD on high is mighty!

 Your decrees are very trustworthy;
    holiness befits your house,
   O LORD, forevermore.

I know you are already praying for the suffering people of the Sendai region and elsewhere in Japan. And I am sure you are also already prepared to give to relief agencies. But let us also pray that lasting mercy will be granted to the people of Japan so that they will come to know the true light of the world, Jesus Christ. "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. ... And from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace." (John 1:14.16)

Comments

[Eliza Huie]

Couldn't get the link to work. Anyone else have trouble with it?

[DG]

I just viewed the 6 minute video. The footage of the tsumani water is so surreal and devastating. I will definitely be praying for God's mercy on all the people of Japan.