Shaking it up!

Wednesday morning about 7:00, I felt the bed shaking and the house creaking. It was like the house was being pulled apart and it was loud. I knew immediately it was an earthquake, even though I have never felt one before. It was only a few seconds but it scared me. The epicenter was near Magna about 30 miles for our home. There was some damage to homes, and businesses in Magna, and some power outages. Thankfully no one was injured. Moroni lost his trumpet and there was some damage to buildings in Salt Lake also. Ironically the Salt Lake Temple is undergoing a major structural and seismic renovation that will take about four years.

It certainly seems an earthquake is designed to get our attention and to surprise us. This earthquake happened during a global pandemic caused by the Coronavirus. The virus was first detected in China late last year and now  every state in America has cases. Many people have died. Schools have been closed for at least two weeks, people seem to be hoarding food and other items, and we have a toilet paper shortage.  We have been asked to avoid large gatherings, practice social distancing, so no church either. Crazy! Tim and I have tried to get more prepared. We have stocked up, filled the pantry, and fridge with food. Tim did most of the shopping and I was so grateful. We have been counseled to be prepared and this was a wake up call.

My message to you today, my brothers and sisters, is simply this: the Lord is in control. He knows the end from the beginning. He has given us adequate instruction that, if followed, will see us safely through any crisis. His purposes will be fulfilled, and someday we will understand the eternal reasons for all of these events. Therefore, today we must be careful to not overreact, nor should we be caught up in extreme preparations; but what we must do is keep the commandments of God and never lose hope!

The Joy of Hope Fulfilled | M. Russell Ballard
October 1992

I'm thankful that today my family is safe and well.