2014: Year of the Ark

The Netherlands, Hong Kong, the United States -- all home to some kind of ark-themed attraction. The writer of this psalm sounds like he needs one, too.

The new year has begun, and conditions look good for a flood.

A flood of arks.

Arks are bobbing up around the world at a surprising rate.

In the Netherlands, you can now visit "Ark van Noach." This is a full-sized ark model that actually floats. Built by a construction company owner named Johan Huibers, it cost $1.3 million and weighs 3,000 tons.

In Hong Kong, another full-sized replica of Noah's ark exists at "Noah's Ark Park and Resort." It stands alongside a solar telescope, a set of gardens and evangelistic displays. Unfortunately, its Christian benefactors are on trial facing bribery and corruption charges.

In Frostburg, Maryland, you can see "God's Ark of Safety." It was started by Church of the Brethren pastor Richard Greene in 1974, after a series of visions that inspired him to build Noah's ark next to Interstate 68. He's been working on it ever since.

In Williamstown, Kentucky, plans are being laid for "Ark Encounter." A group called "Answers in Genesis" wants to build a $73...