Prayers for Japan

Like most of the world I have spent the past few days watching the news about the earthquake/tsunami in Japan. My heart breaks for the people who have lost everything in the country. I honestly can say that I can't even begin to imagine what the people of Japan are feeling.

As I've been thinking and praying about this, I have wondered how this connects to children's ministry. I think when dealing with a disaster of this magnitude we need to be prepared to answer questions and deal with helping the children in our scope of influence process the disaster. Also, I wanted to give you a resource if your children decide that they want to do something to help.

I am not saying that you need to make this the only focus of your next Sunday School lesson or that you need to sit Suzie down to talk about this. However, if your children bring it up (which they may have already, I may be too late) I hope this can prepare you to handle the situation.

First of all, it is important to be open and honest when answering questions about a disaster like this. Kids may have a million questions ranging from "Why did this happen?" to "Could that happen here?" Try to be honest, but don't be afraid to say "I don't know." As you answer these questions, try to use as simple language as possible. Be sensitive, but be matter of fact. Using symbolic language doesn't work well with children who are concrete thinkers.

A big fear may be that an earthquake will strike where you live. If your child asks, be honest if you live in a place that an earthquake may strike. It probably won't hurt to use the opportunity to talk about what to do if there is a natural disaster in your area.

Above all else it is important for kids to realize that even when bad things happen, God still loves us and He is still in control. Use the time to pray with your child for the people effected by the disaster. Here are some Bible references to share:

Dueteronomy 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Psalm 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalm 56:3 When I am afraid, I will trust in you.

Luke 12:7 Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Hebrews 13:6 So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”


If your children want to get involved with helping, remind them that prayer is the easiest and best way to get involved. God is after all the creater and sustainer of the universe.

If your child wants to help raise or donate money for rebuilding, the Baptist Global Response Center is a great resource in which 100% of the money given will go to the people who need it. Here is the facebook page link: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/GoBGR.

I hope this has helped you as you deal with comforting and encouraging the children in your life through this disaster.

My prayers are with the people of Japan.