讀後心得

On March 28, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, causing a large number of buildings to collapse. The death toll has exceeded 3,350, with 4,500 people injured. The epicenter was located in Wa City, where residents of this historic city are afraid to return home due to continuous aftershocks, with many even choosing to sleep outdoors. Local religious groups have actively launched rescue efforts, providing supplies and spiritual support to help affected people through these difficult times. Pastor Chen stated that although the rescue period has passed, many families are still buried under the rubble. With the assistance of religious organizations, the comfort provided to residents has helped them regain hope and continue on the path to rebuilding their homes.

Myanmar experienced a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 on March 28, and there have been frequent aftershocks since, instilling fear in the local residents. Many prefer to sleep on the streets rather than return to their damaged homes, fearing further disasters. Fortunately, the active assistance from local religious groups has brought some peace and comfort to the affected population. The epicenter of the earthquake was near Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city and a historical site, which has a total population of about 1.53 million. The earthquake caused countless buildings to collapse, bridges to be damaged, and roads to deform, including the well-known century-old royal palace of the "Konbaung Dynasty," which also suffered varying degrees of damage. Many families instantly lost their homes, showing helpless eyes and desperate cries under the ruins. The deep sorrow of losing loved ones is heart-wrenching. Since the earthquake, more than a week has passed, and it is reported that 3,350 people have died and 4,500 have been injured. During an interview with a Chinese church in Mandalay, the pastor mentioned that although the golden time for rescue has passed, the Myanmar government is still working hard to advance the rescue actions, while many parishioners' homes have been buried under rubble, and many are believed to be victims. Because bodies cannot be preserved for long, this pastor has been continuously visiting church members, distributing supplies, and holding countless memorial services. He works from early morning until late at night, often returning home after nine o'clock. In addition to the residents' homes suffering severe damage, the church, an old building with a history of 60 years, has also been affected. The pastor stated that the church, located near the palace, has its old building heavily damaged, with cracks appearing in the walls, and it is leaning towards the new building. People are now afraid to enter the church, so he chooses to sleep in his car. Many have witnessed the tragedy of buildings collapsing and being crushed beneath them; therefore, even if their homes are still intact, many still choose to sleep on the streets. Moreover, with frequent aftershocks, sometimes the ground shakes in the middle of a bath, filling their once peaceful daily lives with fear, as if an even greater earthquake could strike again. In this predicament, many do not know how to face the future. This pastor deeply feels that the spontaneous actions of religious groups bring comfort and support to the affected people. He points out that the majority of the local population practices Buddhism, and temples play a crucial role in their spiritual lives. After the earthquake, temples provided food and shelter for the homeless outdoors, while the church actively visited its members and offered various supplies. Everyone, based on their resources, cares for and helps those in need, providing timely assistance and spiritual comfort to the most vulnerable during this special time while making the best use of resources. After the earthquake, a fire broke out in a nearby area of Mandalay, burning down 400 households. On the fifth day, the pastor went to visit with a large amount of supplies, including pots and bowls, as well as emergency funds. He also recounted a touching story: a church brother in Yangon learned that the Mandalay church was collecting supplies and funds, and proactively contacted the pastor, saying, "Tell me how much you need; as long as there is a need, I will immediately donate." Therefore, the gifts provided to the affected families in Mandalay were the result of this brother's generous donation. In facing the still panicking population of Myanmar, the pastor encouraged that even in dire situations, as long as there is love, there is hope. Love can transcend all, warming people's hearts; even though many are suffering from unpredictable hardships and sorrows, the resilience and self-reliance of the Myanmar people reveal hope for rebuilding. We will continue to use various resources to provide material and spiritual support, which will further help accelerate the reconstruction journey of the people in Myanmar.