An Ever-Present Help in Trouble

Have you been watching the news reports of the terrible flooding that hit the Hill Country of Texas? As of this writing, the death toll has risen to 120 with 150 still missing. Much attention has been given to the number of young people from Camp Mystic who perished in the flood, as well as accounts of heroic efforts to save those caught in the rapidly rising water. Camp Mystic is a Christian camp for girls that has been in existence since 1926. According to one of its brochures, “The staff at Camp Mystic strives to provide young girls with a wholesome Christian atmosphere in which they can develop outstanding personal qualities and self-esteem. Each summer, Mystic challenges its campers to meet the Mystic Ideals: 1) Be a better person for being at Mystic; 2) Let Mystic bring out the best in them; 3) Grow spiritually.” 

A natural question that has been asked is, “If this camp is a Christian camp, why would God allow such a  terrible tragedy to happen?” Some things are beyond our understanding on this earth, as is made clear through Job’s interaction with God. But what we do know is that our God understands all there is to understand about pain and suffering. We see that at the cross. But we also know that Jesus’ story did not end there. Easter came. 

And so it does for all who die in Christ. As the Psalmist says: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging (Psalm 46:1–3).” Terrible events are going to happen in a world broken by sin, but our Lord has the final word. All who are in Jesus live! 

But those who are now in the midst of shock and grief need the continued comfort and strength which only our Lord can give and offers through His people, the Body of Christ. They also need assistance in rebuilding the physical world broken around them. For that reason, we are changing July’s monthly mission emphasis from LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces to the Disaster Relief Fund of the Texas District of our LCMS. I have been assured by Texas District President and friend of mine Rev. Dr. Jon Braunersreuther that 100% of money sent will go directly to relief efforts. We will have Ministry to our Armed Forces as our mission support for August. 

Thank you so very much for your outpouring of Christian care and concern as we keep all affected by the floods in our prayers and do what we can financially to support relief efforts.