As Christ spoke peace to a raging storm and a group frenzied with fear, so we speak peace into the floods of Texas. In using the phrase, "peace, be still" I am not implying inaction or laziness. Rather I am asking us to pray for a deep sense of calm and care, of soul-level stillness before God, and of valiant faith and strength in the midst of danger and distress. We grieve with our sisters and brothers who are losing so much in this disaster. Lord, hear our prayer.

God, we see your creation and its power,
Both to heal and destroy.
You have shown us the limits of our control;
In your mercy, you are teaching us hard lessons of trust.

Despite our best efforts
We can’t always avert disaster.
Despite our plans and schemes
Storms and flood sometimes find us.
But you are there,
Your voice is over the waters (1).

We speak in the pattern of Christ:
Peace, be still (2).
To the rising waters, we say:
Peace, be still.
To all who are in distress:
Peace, be still.
To all who are awaiting rescue:
Peace, be still.
To all who have lost possessions and homes:
Peace, be still.
To all who are displaced:
Peace, be still.
To all who are losing hope:
Peace, be still.
To all who are exhausted:
Peace, be still.
May the peace of Christ enfold you, and the provision of Christ support you.
May the love of Christ encircle you.

We stand in the eye of the storm,
Anxiously awaiting your help, Oh God.
We stand in solidarity with our neighbors,
Looking for ways to be your hands and feet.

God sits enthroned over the flood;
You, Lord, sit enthroned as ruler forever.
May the Lord give strength to afflicted people!
May the Lord bless them with peace! (3)

Amen

1) Psalm 29:3
2) Mark 4:25-41, Matthew 8:23-27
3) A paraphrase of Psalm 29:10-11