A Call to Prayer For Those Devastated by the Flooding
A man took a journey to a land across the seas to a place of great tragedy and misfortune. He writes, “I did not go by ship or plane, I traveled on my knees. I saw so many people there hurting and heartbroken, and Jesus told me I should go, that there were souls to win and people to help. But I said, “Jesus, I can’t go to lands across the seas.” He answered quickly, “Yes, you can by traveling on your knees.” He said, “You pray, I’ll meet the need. You call, and I will hear. It is up to you to be concerned for people in despair and pain both far and near.” And so, I did; knelt in prayer, gave up some hours of ease, and with the Savior by my side, I traveled on my knees. As I prayed on, I saw people healed and made whole. I saw God’s workers’ strength renewed while laboring in the field. I said, “Yes Lord, I’ll take the job. Your heart I want to please. I will heed your call and swiftly go by traveling on my knees.”
Today, God is calling us to travel on our knees to those Texas communities devastated by the flooding in the last few days. I remind us that there is power in our prayers. God is moved by those of faith and who pray. Max Lucado, a Christian author, says it well, “The power of prayer is not in the one praying but in the One who hears our prayers.”
As we pray, may the book of Psalms comfort us with a promise. It says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed” (Psalm 34:18). May the prayer below be a guide to help you to travel on your knees:
Loving God, we turn to you in sorrow and concern for those who have been devastated by the recent floods. We lift up all those communities who have been affected by this tragedy, especially those along the Guadalupe River in Central Texas. We are grateful for the lives saved and for those who remain safe. We are grateful for our churches and members of our MHM family who offer shelter and hope.
However, we are heartbroken over the devastation and the lives loss. So, we pray for your hand of protection and guidance to be upon them. We pray for comfort and strength for those who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods. We pray for those who are missing and ask that they may be found alive and safe. As the search continues, may their families find solace in your presence and the support of their community.
May the waters subside quickly and give those communities the strength to rebuild and the hope to move forward. We pray for those working tirelessly to rescue and provide aid, for their safety and endurance. Guide our leaders to make wise decisions that will help those affected and prevent future tragedies.
God, who heals and provides peace, we know the flood waters bring pollution and toxic chemicals. As a result, in the days to come, people may experience illness. In addition, there will be others who will experience emotional trauma due to traumatic times. We pray, in the days to come, for your healing touch on those who are sick and under emotional distress. We also ask for those who are poor and the underserved find healthcare and treatment in their time of need. May your peace that surpasses all understanding fill the hearts of all who are hurting. In your mercy, hear our prayer.
With You on My Knees,
Pastor Scott Nichols
Vice President of Ministry & Mission Integration
