Family Discussion: Colombian Earthquake
The following article is designed to help parents dialogue about a current event with their children. It was written at a 7th grade reading level.
READ
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.
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.
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)
REFLECT
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).
RESPOND
Make gratefulness a family habit. List things you’re thankful for before you ask for things in prayer, add to a gratitude list daily in a journal, take the time to write a “thank you” note, or share what you love about your friends and family… get creative.
Memorize Hebrews 12:28-29, “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our ‘God is a consuming fire’” (NIV).
Pray for Colombia’s lost, mourning, first responders, and leaders: Dear God, our loving Shepherd, Thank You for the brave helpers—like firefighters, police officers, doctors, and nurses—who rush to help whenever people are in danger. Please keep them safe, give them wisdom, and help them do their jobs well. Be very close to anyone who is hurt, scared, or missing someone they love. Wrap Your arms around them and make them feel safe. Please make sure everyone who needs food, a warm bed, or a friend gets what they need today. Give strength to all the people working hard to fix up broken buildings and help neighborhoods rebuild. When things around us feel shaky or scary, remind us that You are our strong, solid rock. Thank You for promising that one day, You will make the whole world good, peaceful, and safe forever. Help us to love You, trust You, and share Your kindness with others every single day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Credit: Decaf (The Pour Over for Families). "Colombian Earthquake." August 13, 2026.