So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: for I trust in thy word Psalm 119;142

Is it possible that terrible disasters can turn the heart of a nation to God? After our infamous "9/11" for a few weeks people in America were sober. Even Disney Land closed up briefly. Like ancient King Ahab who "walked softly" after Elijah's stern rebuke, the nation seemed to walk softly for a time. The talk shows became a bit subdued in tone. Comedians sobered up for a few weeks. Luxury sales slackened off.

The Sacramento Bee reported recently a year after, New Yorkers are still in a state of "humility." The horror was unspeakable. Thoughtful people everywhere couldn't help but think of Revelation's description of the final fall of modern "Babylon": "Alas, alas that great city . . . for in one hour so great riches is come to nought. . . A mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone, and cast it into the sea, saying, Thus with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all" (18:16-21).

"God bless America!" we sing. "Stand beside her, and guide her." And all this time since 1776, God has done so, and save for a pathetic little skirmish in 1812 (the British burned the White House), God has "stood beside" us and saved us from invasion within our own shores. He has responded to our National Hymn, "Protect us by Thy might, Great God our King!" Now we wonder why He "stood back" and permitted (for our first time!) that horrendous incursion of 9/11. Will Heaven ever be forced to judge, "There's nothing of moral rectitude left in this nation worth divinely protecting"?

No, disasters are not God's method of turning a nation's heart to Him. Ahab's "repentance" lasted only a short time, as do all repentances induced by fear. Only the "Elijah" message of "turning hearts," of much more abounding grace, can effect a permanent conversion. It's time for it, on this great cosmic Day of Atonement!

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