Myanmar Earthquake – a world of pain

I’ve written about suffering several times, but it’s an experience that comes around time and time again. Tragically, pain is back in the headlines.

Debris in Mandalay on 28 March 2025.

Last week’s earthquake in Myanmar has been devastating, resulting in more than 3,000 lives lost. Destruction was widespread, with a building even crashing down in neighbouring Thailand.

Such disasters, sadly, are symbolic of our global cultural moment. Foundations are shifting and shaking. Amid our astonishing technological, digital and innovative capabilities, suffering continues.

When we are hit with suffering – as we all are – we need two things to see us through: the right foundations; and a pathway to restoration.

What Are We Standing On?

Firstly, we need the right foundations – something unaffected by the swirling economics, spiralling geopolitics and shifting sands (both symbolic and literal) beneath our feet.

Jesus tells of two men who built their houses on two different foundations, one on sand and the other on a rock. Both houses were subject to the same storm, and the house built on a rock survived while the house built on sand was destroyed.

The Christian life is one with a sure foundation – a relationship with Jesus Christ. However, Jesus offers us even more than a foundation. He offers comfort, strength and restoration in the rebuild after the storm.

The Human Impulse To Build And Restore

Our instinct for rebuilding and restoration runs deep. Think of the many TV programmes centred on this theme: Grand Designs follows someone’s journey to build their dream home, while DIY SOS and Extreme Makeover show people coming together to help a family in need. For the Love of Old Houses and Restoration Australia focus on restoring historic buildings. There is something truly wonderful about constructing and cultivating something precious.

Consider one of the world’s most popular video games. Minecraft has sold well over 300 million copies and is soon to be joined by a highly anticipated movie. People of all ages are flocking to it. Why? The psychological research suggests one simple reason: It chimes with the human impulse to build, and rebuild.

The Cross Of Jesus Christ

Domenico Fetti, The Veil of Veronica

Amid suffering – earthquakes, job losses, financial uncertainty, sickness, and the rest – we fall back on our foundations, reach out for comfort and for help to rebuild.

As we approach the end of Lent, we would do well to remember the greatest response to suffering in human history: The Cross of Jesus Christ. The world knows of no stronger foundation and no surer path to restoration and rebuilding, than a life lived with Him.

Go Deeper With These Resources:

First Person Aftershock of Myanmar Earthquake: A reflective and thought-provoking account from one of Church Mission Society’s mission partners who was in Bangkok when the earthquake happened.

If There is a God Then Why are There Natural Disasters and Diseases?: Watch Sharon Dirckx thoughtfully respond to this question. Sharon has also written an excellent book on this subject for anyone wishing to go deeper, called Broken Planet.

In this episode of The Sacred Podcast, you can hear two perspectives on what it means to stay connected, remain rooted, and live a meaning-filled life in these turbulent times.

Walking With God Through Pain and Suffering: In his book Tim Keller gives guidance, encouragement and inspiration to us on how to face our own suffering.

In the midst of difficult times, the Christian message offers Hope. May you live in that hope this week.

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