O God of love, whose Spirit in creation moved over the face of chaos, bringing life:

   as we bear witness to to the awful power of wind and water

   which raged over your people in Hurricane Harvey, changing lives and landscapes in an instant

WE TOUCH YOUR HAND OF MERCY, AND OFFER OUR HEARTFELT PRAYERS.

 

In neighbors who rallied to one another’s need, in houses of worship which opened their doors to give shelter, in volunteers who set their personal needs aside to assist those in grave danger and need

WE FEEL THE HEART OF YOUR COMPASSION.

 

In the outpouring of care and concern for the bereft, the displaced, and those whose homes are ruined In the kindness of those who listen, bind up injuries and comfort the bereaved,

WE EXPERIENCE THE STEADFASTNESS OF YOUR LOVE.

 

We are grateful for the signs of your presence in responders, neighbors, strangers and families of faith, who come together as one common body to save, support, and salve the wounds of those who suffer.

FOR ALL THESE VISIBLE SIGNS OF YOUR INVISIBLE GRACE, WE BLESS YOUR NAME

 

Our Rock and Redeemer, who from the bonds of death rose to resurrection life for the sake of Love,

   be a strong presence among those who, having survived this chaos,

   now face grief, uncertainty and weary days:

BY YOUR TENDER MERCIES, BE THROUGH US A SOURCE OF HOLY COMFORT AND TANGIBLE RESPONSE.

 

MAY THE PEACE OF GOD MOVE THROUGH US, THE WORK OF GOD BE DONE BY OUR HANDS,

THE REST OF GOD ABIDE WITH THOSE WHO HAVE ENDURED TERRORS AND SORROW.

IN THE SEASON OF REBUILDING TO COME, MAY THE LIFE OF GOD BRING OUT OF FORMLESS CHAOS, A NEW CREATION. AMEN.

 

8/29/17   Rev. Dr. Laurie Kraus, director, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance

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