In any case disaster turns our lives upside down. Victims are often left without homes or possessions. Some disasters claim thousands of lives. People are wounded. The very necessities of life such as clean water and food may be unattainable.
People suffer emotional and spiritual losses as well.
Victims grieve the losses of lives and property. They are left with the impression that they are vulnerable and no longer in control of their lives. Disasters even cause people to question the existence and the goodness of God. Some victims feel deserted by neighbors, family, and God. It is into this bleak picture of human suffering that people of faith are called to come offering a cool drink of water, a healing hand, a listening ear, and the good news of God's love.