Good news from afar

It was three years ago that I last visited in New Zealand.  On that occasion, a friend and I explored the South Island, including a stop in the Capital city, Christchurch.  While there, we were graciously welcomed by a couple who offered us a place to lay our heads, and food to keep us going.  We also took advantage of our stay to travel by rail from Christchurch to Hokitika, located on the West coast of the South Island, en route to the Fox Glacier.

News this week of the earthquake that is still ravaging the city of Christchurch reached us, and since that time, we have watched in shock as iimages of some of the landmark buildings we toured, now left in rubble, tell the tale of destruction that is still being uncovered.

Last night, I sent a brief email to our friends, asking if they are ok, and after many hours of wondering, I received the reply tonight.  Good news: they are well, aside from some minor damage, but no injuries to them or to any of their family.  This indeed is good news.  The same cannot be said for many more people, some of whom have still not been heard from, and others of whom are feared still trapped in the rubble.

For good news received from afar, we give thanks, even as we join in prayer for those who have perished in the earthquake ... a tragedy that is still marking the country because of aftershocks, and hampering the rescue and relief efforts.