Andean terrors


At 3 am last night our bed started to shake. I suspected the love-of-my-life was having a good scratch. But no, it went on too long, and when the shoogling stopped, I thanked God: it had been an earth tremor.

Andean nations from Colombia to Chile are connected by a common language, culture, and fear – the earthquake. Our block of flats has 3 warning notices: What to do in the case of a fire, an explosion, and an earthquake. However when an ‘quake strikes there’s no getting off that earth-shaking trampoline to read an advice sheet.
Following the Chilean disaster, English colleagues in the Seminary received enquiries about their safety. I’m glad to say that no Scot (nor, surprisingly, North American) made a similar request: a bit like asking Glaswegians if they’re okay after an earthquake in Turkey.
But, in fairness to the English, Colombia is affected. Two of our students work in Chile and their properties were damaged; trade, phone connections, the South American Games and businesses have all suffered. But then there are the dead. “What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world?”

For the Andes Psalm 46 comes with fresh meaning, “God is our refuge … though the earth give way..."

Photo: When the Andes shake, stone statues are a hazard rather than a help

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