A Prayer for Texas Hill Country Flooding

Tears fall as I write:

As most Texans, I have spent many summers of my life on the Guadalupe River, full of memories, laughter and quiet beauty that is unique to this geographical region. My family has camped in the very area that has now became a watery grave. I think I speak for many when I say that this place of fun, simple living and celebration has become tainted with deep heartache and horrific reminiscence. I write this with deep sadness in my heart for the victims, both humans and animals. I write this with deep respect for those involved in rescue and recovery and clean-up and all the in-between. I write this clumsily as no words or prayers could ever bring the comfort needed nor clearly speak what is currently on my heart. A prayer for the flood victims in Texas: ADONAI, Sovereign Creator, my words fail me as I pray this prayer. I ask for your peace to overwhelm those impacted by the floods in the Texas Hill Country. I ask that you will use Divine guidance to those involved in the recovery operations, to lead these servants to those who are still missing. I pray that you ease the trauma from the minds of what has been witnessed from ALL of those involved. To those who do not know You, please use this event to nudge them towards You. I pray for those using this tragedy to push political agendas or to blame others. Please stir in all of our hearts and help us find deeper love, greater empathy, and humble compassion. Please help all of us use this event to remember how short and precious our lives are. To remind us that each person in our life is a gift from You, and that should never be taken for granted. Father God, I do not understand your ways. I do not understand why you would allow precious children who were on the river to learn more about you, to be taken so early and so tragically. Although my heart is having a hard time grasping this, I rely on my mind rather than my heart and remember and know that Your ways are not my ways. That You are the author of this entire story and what you choose to do with Your creation is Your choice. I know that everything is sovereign and for good. I know darkness does not win. I know these sweet babies are worshipping in your presence. Amen. I have struggled knowing what to write about this event. I sat on it for a couple of days knowing I did not have to write anything at all as countless prayers have already been said. I have nothing profound. Anything profound and moving has already been said. If anyone who has been impacted is reading this, please know that this prayer and post is humble and sincere. On July 5, as the rain continued to come down and more information was made known about what was occurring in the Hill Country, the song "Praise You in This Storm" by Casting Crowns kept replaying in my head as I prayed. There is so much truth in that song. I felt it fitting to share: