Reposted from World Vision: The following was captured by Katsumi Takagi, World Vision Japan, at a safe shelter in Minami Sanriku, one the hardest hit areas by the March 11 tsunami.
Sachie is the mother of one year and four month old Kouka (pictured above). She told World Vision Japan about the day when earthquake occurred. This is her story:
“Kouka was having a nap in the house when the earthquake occurred. I took Kouka right away and ran out side, but the earth was shaking for quite a long time.”
“[The ocean] was quickly overflowing… and the tsunami was approaching toward us. As I saw the size of the tsunami, I instinctively realized I wouldn’t survive if I stayed inside. So I carried Kouka again, and ran up the hill as fast as I could. When I reached the top of the hill, I saw my house was washed away by tsunami.”
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV)
World Vision is a globally recognized organization that is dedicated to serving the world’s most vulnerable people.They are one of the first organizations to respond to the disaster in Japan.They have organized and dispersed teams to go into devastated communities to identify and respond to the needs of the victims.In Miyagi prefecture, World Vision distributed relief aid to victims and is helping them, especially the children, cope with the aftermath of the disaster.
“As a relief agency that focuses on children, we have to respond and are raising money to support our teams already on the ground. They are now bringing supplies to those who have lost everything and setting up safe play areas for children. It is vital that children in these situations can have somewhere safe to go and can be looked after by trained counselors who can help them come to terms with all that has happened.”
If you are interested in partnering with World Vision in serving Japan, please visit their webiste to find out how you can help. Please know we can all play a role in helping our brothers and sisters rebuild their communities.
“Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord; O Lord, hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy.” Psalm 130:1-2 (NIV)
This video was created as a tribute to the people of Japan impacted by the 9.0 magnitude earthquake and the disastrous tsunami aftermath. Entire villages were destroyed, families and loved ones have perished, and what was once known as the one of the strongest countries in the world is now left with nothing. But God’s light never dwindles. Even in times of darkness, God is working miracles shown by the compassionate and heroic acts of the worldwide community who have displayed unmatched stoicism and courage in the face of devastation. We learn of the courageous and merciful acts of those who are risking their lives to help the earthquake victims and we talk about our desires to help. Let us put our words into action by continuing to pray for and support our brothers and sisters in Japan.
Although our hearts break for what is going on, as their brothers and sisters, we are to draw strength from God and respond with hope and love when faced with adversity. This tragic event has shown that the healing and rebuilding process will be long, but it can be shortened if we come alongside our brothers and sisters in Japan to pray, support, and rebuild their country. Let’s come together and help them write a new hopeful story in the aftermath of devastation. Please continue to pray and listen to how God is calling each one of us to respond and serve. Thank you.
