During a historic power outage in Portugal and Spain, millions experienced chaos, prompting reflections on the enduring and limitless power of God in our lives. We had just left touring the Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, on April 28 when we entered the darkened lobby of a hotel. Immediately someone told us the power was out in all of Portugal and Spain. I thought there must be a translation issue since I’d never heard of an entire country without power let alone two countries.
But it was true – there was no power anywhere in Portugal. I thought it best to get back to our hotel and find out more information. We took an Uber and the driver told us more about what was happening.
Tens of thousands of train passengers in Spain and Portugal were left stranded, unable to continue their journeys as rail services came to a halt. The outage also knocked out telecommunications, leaving people without access to cellphones, the internet and online banking. As we drove, traffic lights were off and the gas pumps were not working. Businesses were closed and people joined queues to get cash as card payments did not work. People were coming out of their offices and walking home because they did not know when the buses were coming. The Lisbon airport was shut down.
GOD CAN RESURRECT AND RESTORE WHAT YOU THINK IS LOST AND DEAD
Millions were unable to seek assistance or even communicate about their predicament. The disruption was compounded by panic buying, as locals and tourists rushed to purchase food, supplies and gas, leading to long lines and empty shelves. Many worried about food, water, gas and cash in case the power outage went on for days.
It was quite chaotic; with cellphones not working, no one had any information. Rumors were flying; it was the Russians, a cyberattack, a plane had flown into a power station. No one knew anything.
Our hotel had generators so there was some power. When we went to get something to eat our menu was limited to salad or a Charcutier board of meats and cheeses. I tried for some ice cream, but it had already melted. We were blessed to have something to eat, most restaurants had closed.
WILL POPE LEO XIV REVERSE THE ANTI-AMERICAN VIBE FROM THE LAST POPE?
Initial reports were that Spain would have power back in 10-12 hours, but it could be up to a week in Portugal. Fortunately, power was restored in both countries in 10-14 hours. By the next morning, life for over 59 million people was pretty much back to normal.
The whole experience caused me to reflect on God’s power. Ephesians 3:21 tells us,