Dear C,
Certainly, Jesus told us to pray for our needs. He knows what we need before we ask. We are not informing him of what He does not already know. He also knows what is best for us. At times calming a storm is what is best. At others, letting the storm take its course is ultimatley for the best.
He can certainly handle a hurricane or two or three. The question is not about God’s power or size. It’s about how willing we are to trust His love in the midst of suffering. How seriously do we take the love He expressed for us on the cross?
The worst thing that can happen to us is not to suffer, but to lose hope in Him. As immense as the current disaster is in the Gulf coast area—and it is considerable, His love is greater. And in the end for those who are faithful (read full-of-faith), all will be well. We have His word on it.
Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.
