Presumably, you’ve already seen the devastating reports out of Houston, Texas, as well as smaller surrounding communities.
Last weekend, Hurricane Harvey made landfall near Houston. The storm hung over southeast Texas for several days, dumping the largest single recorded rainfall in the history of the 48 contiguous United States. Naturally, this has led to massive destruction, heartbreaking loss of life, and immense suffering. Thankfully, there have also been countless stories of heroism in the face of great danger, and even worship in the midst of pain.
Our church asks that you pray for those suffering. Most of us cannot fathom the hardship these people are facing now, and will be facing well into the future. Pray for those who have lost so much; pray for those risking their lives to save others; and pray that Christians near and far would step up to the plate with service and generosity – for the good of those who are hurting, the spread of the Gospel, and the glory of God.
We also ask that if you are able, consider giving generously to relief efforts. If you’re looking for ways to give, but don’t know where to go, here’s a suggestion:
International Disaster Emergency Services (IDES for short) is the missions organization we partner with for our annual food-packing event. IDES is a competent and reputable resource for disasters such as these, and they are working hard to partner with Houston churches to best help those affected. If you’d like to give, but also want to make sure your finances are actually going to Hurricane Harvey relief, I’d encourage you to give through IDES. For more information, see this link.
We worship a God who is good, holy, and sovereign. We know that he is still on his throne, even when the world around us looks chaotic. And whether pain and suffering results from a natural disaster, human wickedness, or even the evil forces of Satan himself, Christians are called to pray and serve fervently.
