By Gigi Kotze
On Wednesday 3 April, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan’s sparsely populated county of Hualien. At least 13 people have been confirmed dead, and over a thousand others injured while dozens are still considered missing or uncontactable. This earthquake has been reported as the strongest earthquake in 25 years, though buildings were left staggering, roads damaged, and bridges and tunnels destroyed, the aftermath of this earthquake did not leave the entire city in destruction.
In 1999, Taiwan was hit by its worst earthquake in history. The Chi Chi quake caused the deaths of more than 2,400 people and destroyed tens of thousands of buildings. After this devastating earthquake, building codes were changed and all new buildings were required to meet a basic earthquake resistance level – meaning that they could withstand a certain level of shaking without major structural failures. About a year ago, the world witnessed earthquakes of similar magnitudes hit Türkiye and Syria, causing the deaths of more than 50,000 people. In 2011, a much smaller 6.7 magnitude quake hit the city of Christchurch in New Zealand almost flattening the entire city. In the case of Taiwan’s recent earthquake, we can see how preparation and readiness were key factors in mitigating the impact.
As believers, we can draw parallels between the events prophesied in Matthew 24 and the recent earthquake in Taiwan, reflecting on how Taiwan was physically prepared and how the church should likewise be spiritually prepared. In Matthew 24, Jesus speaks to His disciples about the signs of the end times. He describes various events such as wars, famines, earthquakes, the love of many growing cold, and the increase of persecution – all of which are part of the birth pains signaling the nearing of His return.
Matthew 24:44 reminds us of the uncertainty of the timing of these events: “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him.” This verse underscores the urgency for continual readiness and watchfulness. Just as Taiwan had early warning systems, the church should have spiritual “early warning systems” in place by being watchful over the things Jesus warned us about and being ready to respond to such disasters. The church should heed the lessons of preparedness from Taiwan’s earthquake response by having plans in place for disaster relief and support for those affected in times of crisis, but most importantly the church should be prepared spiritually. A prepared church is watchful, discerning, enduring, faithful in service, ready for Christ’s return, willing to endure persecution, and dedicated to spreading the gospel. It is a community of believers who are actively living out their faith, keeping their focus on Christ, and fulfilling the mission He has given them.
The recent earthquake in Taiwan serves as a reminder for the church to be spiritually prepared, just as Taiwan was physically prepared. As Taiwan reinforced its buildings, the church should reinforce its foundation on Christ and His Word, by deepening our relationship with God through prayer, studying the scriptures, staying vigilant against deception, enduring in faith, and staying connected to the body of believers. As we navigate these uncertain times, let us take heed of Jesus’ words in Matthew 24 and strive to be a church that is prepared, steadfast, and ready for whatever may come.
Please join us in praying for the following:
- Thank God for how Taiwan prepared for earthquakes and that there was minimal damage to infrastructure and that there was not a huge loss of life
- For those who are still missing to be found and for families that did lose loved ones to be comforted and experience the love of Jesus in this difficult time
- For believers in Taiwan and across the globe to reinforce their foundation on Christ and His Word – remaining watchful and steadfast
- For the global body of Christ to prepare for and be ready to respond to world crises – displaying the love of Jesus in practical acts of kindness to those suffering the effects of disasters
