Read:  Isaiah 43:1-3a and Mark 4:35-41

Reflect:   Last week we considered that along with many wonderful opportunities to enjoy God’s good creation, the months of summer also carry an increased potential for natural disasters.  In addition to wildfires and tornadoes, flooding from rainfall, rapid snowmelt, and hurricanes are common spring and summer threats. 

In ancient times, floods often symbolized chaos and disruption of many kinds.  God’s word through the prophet Isaiah reassures us that God does not abandon us in times of disaster or distress.  Jesus demonstrates power over the forces of nature, saving us from the literal and figurative storms of our lives.  We give thanks for rescue and relief workers, meteorologists and storm trackers, and all who help us repair and rebuild!

Prayer:   Save us, O God, for the waters are rising, and there is no firm place to stand.  Life as we know it has been swept away.  Draw near to us in this time of need and be our protection.  Support us as we rebuild what has been ruined.  Do not let us drown in our sorrow, but raise us to new life in your promise of rebirth, already claimed for us in Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.  Amen.  (from All Creation Sings, p. 49.  ©2020 Augsburg Fortress, used by permission.)