In times of crisis, people seek to explain what is surely inexplicable. Scientific theories, explanations of why earthquakes and floods occur become less important than a punitive eye-for-an-eye response or indeed, a rush by organisations to feed, shelter and clothe those affected. Christianity is one faith that in times of crisis can be on both ends of this spectrum.
The most recent of world crises is the disastrous earthquake that has shattered the tiny Caribbean nation of Haiti, where 100,000 or more are feared dead, and three million are in need of urgent humanitarian assistance. The earthquake is considered by the UN to be one of the worst humanitarian emergencies ever.
It is in such times that we look to our leaders. For some, they are leaders of government. Others, leaders of religion. Our leaders can come up with a wide range of responses. Haiti has lost both leaders of government and of religion — its Archbishop and its President among others.
US Televangelist Reverend Pat Robertson last week sparked outrage across the world when he claimed Haitians made a pact with the devil to eliminate the French while under colonial rule. 'They've been being punished ever since,' he said. This is one image of Christianity, which is getting much airplay in the international media.
Another image of Christianity is presented in the aid agencies, including Christian agencies, who are already partaking in the massive relief effort in Haiti. While Robertson no doubt sits in air-conditioned comfort in his TV studio in the US, others are donating funds or providing hands-on assistance.
Even before the devastating earthquake, Catholic Relief Services (CRS) was present in 200 locations in Haiti. Jesuit organisations such as the Jesuit Refugee Service and Fe y Alegria have united to assist in the rebuilding.
These are two diametrically opposed images of Christianity — one of judgment and condemnation, the other of empathy and service. The media portrays both at different times. Often it depends on which media we subscribe to. In a nation which largely identifies as Christian, the Christian response becomes important and notable.
Haiti is one of the poorest nations in the world. Yet it is also an extremely religious country, though perhaps not in a conventional pious Catholic or Protestant mould. In this sense, Robertson's comments are particularly unhelpful, especially when Haitians themselves are wondering what went wrong to lead to this disaster.
Some Haitians see the earthquake as a message from God