The gulf coast of Texas and Louisiana is bracing for the impact of Hurricane Harvey which is expected to bring up to 3 feet of rain to some areas. In China and Hong Kong, people are mopping up after Typhoon Hato which left 12 dead from high winds and extensive flooding. In Switzerland, the village of Bondo has been evacuated following a massive landslide. And in British Columbia, over 1,000 have fled their homes as new wildfires flare.
This prayer is adapted from one I wrote following Hurricane Sandy. Please pray it with me for all victims of these and other disasters in our world today.
Lord, you are always with us,
Our shelter in the midst of every tragedy.
In the quiet and the storm you surround us,
Your love stays closer than a friend.
In this time of storm, of mudslide and disaster be with all who are vulnerable.
Hold them close as the winds blow, the oceans rage and the land slides.
Place your arms around them as the fires burn, trees fall and rivers rise.
Keep them safe from wind and rain and fly debris.
Guide those that respond and keep them safe.
Be with rescuers and firemen,
With electric workers and emergency crews,
With all who reach out to neighbours with your love and compassion.
Comfort and protect them in the midst of danger and of strife.
May all find shelter in the embrace of your wings.