Typhoon Ketsana and Weakness

Neil Postman (among others) argue that the information we glean from the news (TV) is largely unhelpful. We see things that have no affect on our immediate lives, nor can we affect most of the the things we see. What is it's point? he asks. While there are some pieces of international information that are indeed extraneous, one can't help but praise God that he has made us aware (sometimes painfully so) of the world's sufferings and joys. Can we physically affect most of the things we see on TV? Of course not. But can we pray? Of course we can and should. And, perhaps more importantly, can we be transformed by the goings on of the world? Yes.

Such is the case with Typhoon Ketsana. Seeing these pictures (especially the one below of the drowned child) profoundly challeneges my American sensibilities. We have it so incredibly easy. And so, to some degree, I am made weak as I experience, in spirit, the sufferings of my brothers and sisters in the Philippines (see 2 Corinthians 11:16-12:10). And for that, I am joyful.