This is an urgent call to Christians in Nagaland to join hearts in prayer. We have been warned sufficiently of a possible major earthquake with high intensity in our region. We are seriously concerned about it and some concerned individuals too have shared with us the same. So we are issuing this appeal to all.Since the Sumatran quake that caused a tsunami on December 26, 2004, seismologists have noticed that the Indian plate has become seismically very active. Warning is already sounded about the abnormal seismic activity in north-east India and the Himalayan region. A joint study of the US and India in 2001 concluded that a major Earthquake in the region was overdue. Moreover, our unrepentant way of living stands. Attracting the wrath of God.
It is said that in 1897, an earthquake of intensity of 8.7 on the Richter scale struck the region. Then In 1950, another of 8.6 Intensity struck the region. If compared, the recent quake in Kashmir measuring 7.6 was nothing much. In the whole of the Indian sub-continent and the Himalayan region, the north-east India lies over Zone 5 which means the Intensity Is liable to reach 9 on Richter scale. During 1897 and 1950” serious casualty was not heard of, except change of topography. It was because people those days lived under simple houses unlike the present building of heavy structure. So, a quake of 8.6 on the Richter scale in the present day can be devastating.
Jesus said that toward the end times there shall be many earthquakes. If the world had been destined that way, perhaps our prayers may not be able to stop the quake coming to us. On the other hand, as the Lord over nature and the universe, God has also the sovereign authority not to let the quake occur. However, we must try to see and understand the greater purposes of God rather than looking at our own interest and safety. But one thing we are sure is when we pray, God can moderate the intensity of the occurrence and save the people. Let us all repent from our sins, forsake them And humble ourselves before God. At every meeting in the church till the end of November 2005, make this concern a prayer Item.
We call upon the civil authority also to immediately take up some steps of action in the area of Information sharing and. disaster management, so that should’ anything happen people might to face and respond It appropriately.
Issued from NBCC office, Kohima
