World News

BETHANY TIPPIN

A plane crashed in Japan today. It caused a fire that required swift evacuation. World news reports that 379 people successfully exited the aircraft in less than 90 seconds, resulting in 0 casualties. 

Enter an internal conversation with God. 

The BBC article states, “Co-operation was the key for all passengers to escape quickly and safely.” Everyone involved followed instructions. No one stopped for carry-on luggage, forced their way ahead of anyone else, nor stood when they were told to sit. It says, “The well-drilled scenes on the Japan Airlines plane contrast starkly with aircraft evacuations that fail to strictly adhere to safety protocols.” 

My awareness rose gently. These people thought of lives, not belongings. They worked together, chose obedience, and all were saved. 

Questions began to surface in reflection… they tipped me toward Jesus’ statements: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Mt 6:19-21) Perhaps this isn’t a natural parallel for you. Still, it pulled me deeper into a long-term awareness of the desire to choose people, relationships, and life over material possessions and accomplishments. 

What questions arise in you? Do you meet Jesus as you read the news?