Even in the Midst of the Storm…

Several years ago now, I remember helping some friends clean up after Hurricane Irma swept through North East Florida. It was heartbreaking to go back into the same homes that had been flooded by Hurricane Matthew just the year before. We removed wet drywall and soggy insulation, carried out appliances that had been floating, and collected personal items destroyed by the water.  The same neighborhoods once again looked like war zones, and the exhaustion was easily read on my friend’s faces.

And yet at the same time, it was moving to me to see neighbors coming together. Church groups offering to cut down limbs and help carry heavy items. Strangers handing out water and food. Others stopping by to lend a hand. It just reminded me that even amid devastation and suffering we can find beauty, strength, and goodness.  We saw much of the same thing in the early stages of this pandemic – neighbors looking out for neighbors… Churches looking out for strangers… And it gave me great hope.

One of my favorite Psalms is Psalm 46. In that Psalm we read:

God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change,
though the mountains fall into the heart of the sea;

Let us pray: We thank you, O God, that even during the storm, we can see your love at work. We pray today for all of those affected by the recent hurricanes – and especially those who have been affected deeply by this on-going pandemic. We lift to you those who have lost friends and loved ones, and for others who lost jobs. Be near to all who are suffering and hurting today.  We also pray for first responders, for police officers, for doctors and nurses, for churches and other organizations who come to bring aide; and for all the women and men who risk their health and even their lives to save and care for others. May they know our gratitude and your grace.  We ask all of this in Jesus’ name. Amen.