Gracious and merciful God, in these days of distress and turmoil, we turn to You for strength and comfort in our suffering and grief.
Daily we witness Your generosity in the courage and strength of firefighters who seek to quench the fires ravaging our state.
We witness Your love and care in the courage of those who rush to help in the recovery efforts from devastating floods.
We witness Your healing touch in the dedication of health care workers, who risk their own welfare in this continuing COVID pandemic.
We are in awe of the young who feel called to serve their country to the point of death.
Gracious God, we pray for those displaced because of fires, floods, wars, and disease. And we ask You to give them the strength and resilience to rebuild their lives with greater intention, greater creativity, and greater love. Give all of us the strength of purpose so that out of these terrible events, wonders of goodness and grace will emerge to bring comfort and hope in the midst of so much sorrow. We ask this in Your name.—AMEN.