A Twisting Wind that Wreaks Such Devastation

Words by Andrew Pratt, 2013

Topical Reference: natural disaster; destruction; loss; grieving; suffering; death

British Methodist pastor and hymn writer Andrew Pratt composed this poignant, yet hopeful text in the aftermath of the devastating tornado in Oklahoma City on May 20, 2013. It recognizes the destruction and loss of human life that so often results from such natural disasters and asks, "And where is God when random death walks in…?" The last stanza answers the question: Christ suffers and God loves us through human loss and grieving, just as was the case at the crucifixion. The author suggests the tune, INTERCESSOR. Also provided is the alternate tune VICAR.

"A Twisting Wind that Wreaks Such Devastation" [Tune: INTERCESSOR by Charles Hubert Hastings Parry, 1904] (Sibelius format)

"A Twisting Wind that Wreaks Such Devastation" [Tune: INTERCESSOR by Charles Hubert Hastings Parry, 1904] (pdf)

"A Twisting Wind that Wreaks Such Devastation" [Tune: VICAR by V. Earle Copes, 1963] (Sibelius format)

"A Twisting Wind that Wreaks Such Devastation" [Tune: VICAR by V. Earle Copes, 1963] (pdf)