100 Days Later

Do you remember back when the disaster of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion first happened? When we were surprised that the Gulf Coast Oil Spill had not been stopped after 2 weeks? When we were shocked that the leak had not been capped by 30 days? When we were in unbelief that 60 days did not come with a solution or much hope of one even?

Here we are now, 100 days into this disaster. The cap that was put into place nearly 2 weeks ago seems to be holding. Less oil is on the surface of the ocean to be skimmed. The relief wells continue to progress.

At the same time, however, the families of the 11 workers who died still deal with their loss. Thousands have lost their jobs. Countless others have been hurt economically. Churches and other relief groups are seeing increased demand. Marshes, wetlands, and the gulf (homes to so many of God’s creatures) have oil and the toxic dispersant floating through them and in places unknown. Beaches are damaged. People are hurting, scared, and depressed. The effects go on and on.

So, have we turned the corner? Can we declare victory?

While we seem to have turned a corner with the continued spill – though I hesitate to celebrate until the well is permanently killed – the effects could last for decades. This is the part that cannot be forgotten. The temptation will be to let this fade into the background. But we cannot ignore the fact that the implications of this spill will likely go on for many years. The 3 to 5 MILLION barrels of oil spilled will have an ongoing impact on God’s children, creatures, and creation.

As the situation continues to develop and change, followers of Jesus Christ need to step in and meet the needs. They need to participate with God in realizing His kingdom here on earth. They need to share that God is with those affected and the hope that His better future awaits.

Let this be a wake up call to live differently. Let this be a time where we realize how our care for neighbor and evangelism overlap with caring for God’s creation. Let this be a moment where we share the love of Jesus Christ with those in need.

Please continue with us in prayer that God be moving in the midst of this tragedy.

Also consider:

All of our coverage of the oil spill

Praying Confidently in the Midst of Disaster

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