Storm Warnings

Scripture Reading: Revelation 16:15-17

Isaac’s Storm is a very interesting book about a hurricane that wiped out Galveston in 1900.  One of the main plotlines of the book revolves around how everyone was convinced that a hurricane would not strike Galveston, even as one approached.  The author vividly describes how people went about their business as if nothing was wrong even as the streets began to flood.  Children played in the water, men gathered for breakfast at the local diner, and no one fled from the storm that was about to strike.

              Some people weren’t concerned because Isaac Cline, the national weather service officer in Galveston, assured them the storm would not be severe.  Other’s simply believed that Galveston was invincible.  Some thought that since they had never seen a hurricane strike Galveston one never would.  So, for many reasons, people assured themselves nothing bad would happen.  And as a result over 6,000 people died one September day in 1900.  The worst part of the whole story is it wasn’t necessary for so many to die.  There was time and opportunity for almost everyone to escape the city or find safe refuge. 

              Storms gather on the horizon of many a life today.  The Bible warns us, “It is appointed unto man once to die and after death the judgment.”  Not only are we given a warning of the approaching storm, but we are also pointed to the refuge – Jesus Christ.  “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved.”  The saddest thing I can think of is for any person to die without Christ.  It is not only tragic it is unnecessary.