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This is an encore presentation of a podcast conversation we had in April 2011 on the heels of the then-recent Japanese earthquakes and tsunamis. With Hurricane Harvey now devastating Houston and surrounding areas, it's as timely now as it was then. Are there theologically and pragmatically healthy discussions to be had within Mormonism about nature, and especially natural disasters. Often we hear claims that the upheaval and suffering caused by earthquakes, hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, tornados, famine, and the like are \u201cGod\u2019s will,\u201d that God is sending a message through these events. And certainly there is certainly scriptural precedent for that view, and even modern prophetic utterance. But are there other, more nuanced and perhaps more ennobling ways to frame natural disasters within a theistic worldview? And if there are ways of seeing these upheavals that can lead to increased faith or broadened and deepened spirituality or love for God and the world, are any of these healthy approaches hinted at or embedded in particular Mormon views and practices?

We know you\u2019ll enjoy this dynamic discussion between Mormon Matters host\xa0Dan Wotherspoon\xa0and panelists\xa0George Handley,\xa0Duane Jeffery, and\xa0Joanna Brooks. We encourage you to also visit and contribute to this episode\u2019s blog discussion.