Last Structure Standing | The Story Of The Miracle Shop That Defied Cyclone Freddy And Remains Intact After Ravage
In the aftermath of Cyclone Freddy, a devastating force that claimed over 500 lives and wiped out entire villages in Malawi, there is a story of hope that has emerged. Amidst the destruction, one little shop managed to stand tall, earning it the nickname of the Miracle Shop.
Some may question if it was just coincidence that this shop is named PSALM 91, or MASALIMO 91 in the native Malawian language. The owners, however, firmly believe that their faith and the power of their beliefs played a role in their shop remaining standing amidst the destruction.
Located in the Thyolo district, the family shop is virtually the only one to have survived the wrath of Cyclone Freddy. Speaking to AllAfrica, the owner shared their gratitude, saying, “I thank God. I know there is nothing left in the shop. But at least my shop is still standing, and I will start (again) from there.”
What Psalms 91 Says
But what is the significance of the name PSALM 91? This passage from the Bible speaks of the protection and refuge provided by the Almighty, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'”
The passage goes on to provide assurance of protection from harm and danger, “You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday…no harm will overtake you, NO DISASTER WILL COME NEAR YOUR TENT.”
Cyclone Freddy
Cyclone Freddy returned to south-eastern Africa for a second time in less than three weeks, claiming many more lives and causing widespread destruction in Mozambique and Madagascar. The southern region of Malawi was also hit hard, with one village completely buried in the sand.
Amidst the tragedy and destruction, countries like Zimbabwe are stepping up to provide assistance to Malawi. President Chakwera has declared two weeks of national mourning for the victims of Cyclone Freddy, with all flags flying at half-mast for the first seven days.
As the people of Malawi mourn their losses, the story of the Miracle Shop and its owners’ unwavering faith in the face of devastation serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration.