Read Time: 5 min 24 sec | Reading Level: 7th Grade

Western Colombia was hit by a deadly 7.4 magnitude earthquake on Monday. 

It was the strongest earthquake this century in Colombia. So far, over 250 people have died, more than 2,500 have been injured, and thousands are still missing.

The quake occurred around 7:30 a.m. local time in Chocó, a remote region ~250 miles west of Colombia’s capital city, Bogotá. Tremors could be felt as far as neighboring Ecuador and Panama. More than 1,600 structures were damaged, including 60 collapsed buildings. 

Chocó falls along the Ring of Fire: a giant, horseshoe-shaped path around the Pacific Ocean. It’s home to 90% of the world’s earthquakes and lots (like 450) of volcanoes. Learn more about it here. 

First responders have been searching for survivors among the rubble, but progress has been slow. Many areas close to the quake’s epicenter can only be reached by boat or plane. 

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella, who was sworn in just six days ago, has declared a state of emergency. He said “the entire military and police apparatus” will be used to help bring relief and rescue people who are still missing.

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BE DOERS
It’s easy to feel helpless when you hear stories like this, but the Bible promises there is no mightier action we can take than pleading with the God who commands the shifting of tectonic plates. Pray with confidence for the people devastated by this earthquake, confident that our strong, good God hears you.

“Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray… Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is very powerful in its effect.” 
James 5:13, 16 (CSB) (read full passage)

What gospel lesson can be taught through this story?
Christians look forward to a future where there’s redemption not just for people who trust Jesus, but for creation itself. 

The apostle Paul writes about the beautiful, suffering-free ending that’s coming: “For the creation was subjected to futility​—​not willingly, but because of him who subjected it—in the hope that the creation itself will also be set free from the bondage to decay into the glorious freedom of God’s children” (Romans 8:20-21 CSB).

Just like sin traps people in death, sin traps the earth in decay. But Jesus’s resurrection has sprung the trap, and one day the world will be free from earthquakes, landslides, death, and sorrow. God will make everything new.

What do I want to make sure my kids practice in light of this story?
Gratitude.

It is easy to take basic gifts like running water, electricity, cell service, and a safe trip to school for granted. But human life is fragile, and those basics are not a guarantee.

Make a habit of giving thanks for what you have, because everything good is a gift from God (James 1:17). The apostle Paul says gratefulness is a spiritual discipline: “Be filled by the Spirit: speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music with your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for everything to God” (Ephesians 5:18-20 CSB). 

Gen Z Word of the Week: My weekend plans? Bed rot for a few hours and catch up on my favorite shows.

Family Fun: Move over family movie night: host a PowerPoint night and let your family members get on their favorite soapbox.

Whipped Cream on Top: What color is it? Yes...

How We’re Studying
Alongside our small group, thanks to FamilyLife*

Where have you had your most important conversations? You may be picturing a dining room table, a comfy living room, a cozy back porch… AKA a small group. 

FamilyLife created studies that have been used for 16 years by thousands of small groups and churches to encourage honest conversations, stronger relationships, and spiritual growth. Whether you’re gathering couples, parents, men, or just some friends, there’s a study that will spark the kind of conversation that lasts far beyond each session.

If you’ve been putting off your fall planning, now is the perfect time to get started. FamilyLife studies and workbooks are 25% off for the whole month of August.

What We’re Reading Our Kids Before Back to School
Doing Something New*

We all remember the first-day jitters… But they’re actually a great opportunity to turn a real-life experience into a discipleship moment. 

Doing Something New by award-winning author Mitali Perkins turns the Beatitudes into a simple prayer kids can take into the school year (or any season of newness and change). The vibrant illustrations bring to life things they’ll face (think: classrooms, backpacks, lunch trays) and remind your child that they are not alone: Jesus is in it all with them. 

Add Doing Something New to your back-to-school routine or tuck it away as a keepsake they’ll return to well past August. Grab your copy today!

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