We have spent that past week in Biloxi, Mississippi. This gulf coast city has beautiful beaches where one can appreciate the glory of God’s creative fashion with each passing sunrise and sunset. Of course, we took lots of pictures, while we enjoyed the local cuisine, toured the various sights, and discovered surrounding communities with authentic southern charm. It has truly been a wonderful experience.
However, one thing kept coming up – Hurricane Katrina. In the summer of 2005 the gulf coast was hit by one of the most devastating hurricanes in history. Not since Camille in 1969 had Biloxi suffered such damage. More than 1,800 people died as a result of Katrina, and the total property damage was estimated at $81 billion! New Orleans garnered most of the headlines, but there were many coastal cities impacted. We had the pleasure of eating at two different restaurants that have just recently reopened after being destroyed in 2005. The North Beach in Bay St. Louis had a twenty foot wave come crashing through, demolishing much of what had stood since 1903. Fortunately, there was enough remaining to restore. Their story is repeated throughout the area, with many businesses either completely destroyed, never to return, or taking years to come back. As one drives along Highway 90, the empty lots with vestages of what once was built can be seen everywhere. A number of streets and bridges were washed away. Two major bridges on 90 were completely destroyed: the Bay St. Louis — Pass Christian bridge, and the Biloxi - Ocean Springs bridge. In addition, the eastbound span of the I-10 bridge over the Pascagoula River estuary was damaged. These have been rebuilt, however, much of the debris is still evident.
It’s wonderful to witness the resilency of the people in this area, and the restoration progress. Yet, as we reflected on the terrible power of the storm, I couldn’t help being in awe of God’s might and power. Even with the sophistication of our weather warning systems, we are still unable to accurately predict what a storm will do. Furthermore, we are completely powerless to prevent the damage.
They saw the works of the Lord,
his wonderful deeds in the deep.
For he spoke and stirred up a tempest
that lifted high the waves. They mounted up to the heavens and went down to the depths;
in their peril their courage melted away.
They reeled and staggered like drunkards;
they were at their wits’ end.
Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble,
and he brought them out of their distress.
He stilled the storm to a whisper;
the waves of the sea[b] were hushed.
They were glad when it grew calm,
and he guided them to their desired haven.
Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love
and his wonderful deeds for mankind.
Psalm 107:24-31
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