Hurricanes

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.
(Psalm 46:1-3)

Friends,

I just received a phone call from my daughter in North Carolina.

It wasn’t really a phone call. It was more a walkie-talkie call. I have an app on my phone called “Zello Walkie Talkie”. My daughter said the app is supposed to use radio signals rather than cell towers.

Her electricity went out due to Hurricane Florence. She is on the edge of the storm and she wanted to let me know she was okay.

I was in Hurricane Camille when I was ten years old. It was a frightening experience. I believe my experience increases my concern for my daughter.

Psalm 46 speaks of rushing waters. In hurricanes, the wind can be very dangerous. However, it is the storm surge and water that cause the most damage.

I remember after hurricane Camille; the local paper would print the names of the dead and the cause of death. Most often the cause was accidental drowning due to the storm surge and flooding destroying homes where people lived.

I also remember driving along U.S. Highway 90 after the hurricane. I saw steps going to houses that no longer existed. The house had been washed away.

Psalm 46 tells the reader, “God is a very present help in trouble”. The Psalm is speaking of the international situation of that day. Yet, the Psalm also gives comfort to the reader in many times of trouble. The point is, whatever troubles sway the reader, God is the solid foundation during those troubles.

I think my daughter will be fine. I will see her in a few weeks when she gets married.

But it is a comfort to know there is God who is a “very present help in trouble”.

Peace,

Ricky Adams
Pastor
Peace Lutheran Church
Mill Valley, California