God of the Seas, God of the Wind, Our Scriptures tell of an awful flood. Of waters that overwhelmed the earth. It was you who called your servant Noah to build an ark, a vessel of rescue for the people, the animals of your creation.

Today, we face another water event of cataclysmic proportion. Before Hurricane Ian ever made landfall coastlines and city streets, factories and fields, houses and hot spots were torn up, blown down, and washed away.

As Ian makes tracks, we remember your word, “You were not given a spirit of fear but of love.” We mobilize to tie down, board up, and lash together. We help pack clothes, food, pets, and phones. We get families on the road. We lend helping hands to those that remain.

Even before the torrents subside, we give you thanks: for first responders who will answer emergency calls for volunteers who will be a wave of a second response for service providers who look to a time to offer meals, shelter, and aid. We remember Christ’s words, “When you helped those in need, you helped me.”

We lift your people who are suffering from Ian’s devastation: those without water, electricity, or sanctuary from the storm.. We ask your hand be upon them as we offer our own hands in service. For the lives already lost, we remember your promise, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.” For their loved ones, we ask for your comfort and peace.

In the time of Noah, You dried up the water, you placed a rainbow in the sky In our time, we ask the same That the land return, that homes are restored That work resumes, that “the ties that bind” endure, That your banner of grace and love remains over us always.

In your holy name, we pray, Amen.