Smog, Santiago, Sin, & Salvation

The following was taken from a recent online article...
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HIGH OZONE LEVELS IN SANTIAGO, CHILE LEAD TO HEALTH PROBLEMS

A recent Health Ministry study found ozone levels in the northeast parts of greater Santiago higher than normal during 180 days this year. The study also linked the high levels of ozone in Santiago’s atmosphere with increased rates of pneumonia.

The areas most affected are in the upscale boroughs of Vitacura, Las Condes and Lo Barnechea. The National Environmental Commission attributed the high ozone levels in Santiago’s northeast boroughs to winds that blow pollution in that direction.



Ozone results from a reaction between sunlight and elements in the atmosphere (mainly contaminants) , and can hurt individuals by attacking the lungs as a secondary pollutant. The element serves as an oxidant that causes health complications, including pneumonia.

Permanent vehicle restrictions were proposed, which prohibits private vehicles (determined by the final digit on the license plate) from driving during high contamination days. This would affect all cars that do not have a catalytic converter . Cars are one of the major polluters in the city and failure to comply with the restriction is punishable by fines.

Also proposed were pre-emergency and emergency environmental alerts to be issued when high levels of ozone are detected. This would further restrict the number of cars on the streets during high contamination days.

Ringed by both the Andes and the Chilean Coastal Mountains, Santiago has one of the highest air pollution levels in the world. Major changes to public transport were undertaken this year in the hope of reducing the health and environmental impact felt by the city’s six million inhabitants. Although air pollution was gradually reduced by about one third between 1990 and 2000, there has been little progress since then.

(HT: The Santiago Times)

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Using this article about smog and the health problems in Santiago as an illustration, consider these thoughts about Sin and Salvation.

-In the coming days, sin is going to be higher than normal. 2 Timothy 3:12 says that, "...evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived."

-Satan & Sin is attacking people's souls, their inner man, their families, their lifestyles.

-Permanent damage is being done, and will be done, by the consequences of sin.

-Sin further restricts the number of people and families from serving, loving, and obeying God.

-While major changes to public transport were undertaken this year in the hope of reducing the health and environmental impact, the only hope for the world's sin problem is found in Jesus Christ and the eternal Salvation He provided by dying on the cross and rising from the dead the third day!

Continue to pray for our family to be faithful in our witness and communication of the Gospel and Biblical truth, even amidst the possible smog situation in Santiago.

Cough...Cough...Cough