The Yogyakarta Calamity
On Saturday morning, 27 May, just before 6 o’clock, the earthquake, measuring at a magnitude of 6.2 on the Richter scale, struck near the Indonesia’s ancient capital and densely populated city of Yogyakarta. According to recent estimate, more than 5,100 people were reportedly killed, and thousands were injured and more than 130,000 were displaced. The spokesman of United Nation Children’s Fund said that 40% of the homeless were under the age of 18. It was also stated that close to 35,000 homes and buildings were turned into rubble. The worst affected area was said to be Bantul, followed by Klaten district.
Many countries including Malaysia have sent in medical teams and rescue personnel, and joined the worldwide pledge for relief fund. Christian aid agencies have also responded swiftly to the crisis.
Although the region is Muslim-majority, Christians were not spared from the affliction. Many church buildings were destructed. Barnabas Fund reported that “the Christian population of Bantul is estimated at 2% to 5%. Equivalent figures for Klaten are 10% to 15%. This means that there are up to 40,000 Christians living in Bantul and up to 180,000 Christians in Klaten.”
Pray
1. Praise God: for His love for the Indonesians is shining through those who responded swiftly to the crisis.
2. Victims and those who’ve lost their loved ones: physical and emotional healing, restoration of lives and homes, and they will experience God’s love and comfort.
3. Relief agencies: effective teamwork and efficient delivery of relief services.
4. Good stewardship and proper managing of relief fund.
5. Wisdom and righteousness for the Indonesian authorities in rebuilding the afflicted areas and restoring the lives of victims.
6. Christian brothers and sisters who are afflicted:
a. They will not loss heart in times of difficulties and remain steadfast in God’s faithfulness; that the light of God will continue to shine through them.
b. They will find favour with the Indonesian authorities in obtaining permit to rebuild their churches. [“Because it is so difficult to get worship permits, the loss of legally registered church buildings will have a very serious effect on the Christians.”]
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