LORD, as the waters rise and the rain keeps coming we pray relief for all those impacted by the water and winds of Hurricane Harvey. Comfort those who grieve the loss of life, the loss of their homes and shelter, the loss of normalcy and safety. Grant strength and courage to the helpers, the rescuers, the ones extending mercy and care to those reeling from the trauma of the storm. May their efforts and the prayers of the nation offer hope and hold out the possibility of better days to come.
As the extent of the devastation becomes known to us, Lord God, we pray for resilience and a strong sense of community. In the midst of disaster and its aftermath, so much of what kept us at odds with one another seems meaningless. The needs of those suffering overwhelm any obstacles to our coming together; we seek the good in one another in ways that transform how we view each other. Take that spirit of neighborliness and magnify it around the nation. Grant us such compassion for our brothers and sisters impacted by Harvey that we cannot help but reach out to them and to one another, not just today but in the months and years of recovery to come.
May our care show forth your love and light to those who suffer and make tangible the truth that they are not alone. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
You are welcome to use this prayer in worship. Please do not reprint elsewhere without permission.
