Do you remember what you were doing on the morning of December 26, twelve years ago? Many of us in North America may recall waking up to tragic news stories of unimaginable destruction caused by a 9.2 magnitude earthquake and resulting tsunami that devastated the country of Indonesia. For those of us who watched the disaster unfold at a distance, it may be hard to believe so many years have passed. Yet for many families in the region of Aceh, the painful memories of that fateful day will never leave.

Many of us in North America may recall waking up to tragic news stories of unimaginable destruction caused by a 9.2 magnitude earthquake and resulting tsunami that devastated the country of Indonesia.  For those of us who watched the disaster unfold at a distance, it may be hard to believe so many years have passed. Yet for many families in the region of Aceh, the painful memories of that fateful day will never leave.

This tsunami awoke many in the world to the devastation caused by natural disasters. You, World Renew’s supporters, responded to this overwhelming tragedy with incredible generosity. A staggering $11.6 million was received from individuals, churches, businesses, other humanitarian organizations and Global Affairs Canada to respond to the needs of communities in Indonesia alone. This support enabled World Renew to demonstrate God’s love to disaster survivors in tangible, powerful ways. Part of World Renew’s response constructed 1139 permanent earthquake resistant shelters for those who lost their homes in Blang Mee, a township of Aceh.

On December 7, 2016, some Indonesian families were forced to face similar fears again as a 6.4 magnitude earthquake hit Aceh, leaving 103 dead and over 1,000 injured. While we grieve the loss of life caused by this earthquake, we are thankful that the scale of damage was far less than in 2004.

Shortly after this recent earthquake, World Renew staff reached out to communities in Aceh, where partnerships had developed back in 2004, to see if there was any damage to the permanent shelters that had been built.

“Blang Mee was not affected by this earthquake,” shared a local community member. “There was only a little shake, so all the houses are good.” In a world in which we are constantly bombarded with the news of war, disaster and famine, let this good news be an encouragement to you! May you also rejoice in the news that World Renew’s work in Indonesia continues to bear fruit today, thanks to your generous support.

As we joyfully celebrate the good news of our Savior’s birth during this Christmas season, let us remember the people of Aceh who were affected by the earthquake on December 7 of this month and be thankful that thousands were kept safe. Please keep the families who have lost a loved one in your prayers, asking Jesus, our Prince of Peace, to fill them with peace in this incredibly difficult time.

 

Banner image: Homes constructed by World Renew were not damaged in the recent earthquake in Aceh, Indonesia, on December 7, 2016.