Water, Water, Everywhere…
This has been a profoundly challenging week for our community. Tropical Storm Debby approached not with the usual fury of winds and tornadoes, but with an unrelenting downpour. What began as a welcomed rain soon became a relentless force, saturating every inch of dry ground in our county. Lakes and ponds, swollen beyond capacity, overflowed their banks, and dams burst, placing thousands in the path of destruction. Though I’ve witnessed hurricanes affect our community before, I’ve never seen anything quite like this.
On Tuesday night, as county officials began rescuing people from the rising floodwaters, we opened the doors of our church to embrace our community. Throughout the night, families found refuge within the safe haven of our fellowship hall, greeted with smiles, kind words, food, water, and a place to rest and regroup. Many of these individuals, and countless others, have lost everything.
In the midst of the chaos and crisis, there was a calm, reassuring presence. Perhaps you felt it too—I know I did—a steadying sense that not only were we held in the palm of God’s hand, but that this was our moment to live out our values as faithful encouragers, humble servants, compassionate leaders, and everyday visionaries. And that’s exactly what we did. Many of you reached out, asking how to support those in need. Others came to cook, serve, and welcome our guests at the shelter. I couldn’t be prouder to be your pastor and to be part of this beautiful community of faith.
As I reflect on all that has transpired, the words of Isaiah 43:1-3 come to mind:
“But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.’”
If you or someone you know needs assistance due to Tropical Storm Debby, please call the Red Cross Hotline at 1-800-733-2767 or the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. You can also apply online at disasterassistance.gov.
Thank you for meeting the needs of our community during this crisis and for being the church for our community.
God bless,
Jonathan Smith
For Jesus. For People. For Community.