LORD IN YOUR MERCY

For the mountains may depart 
    and the hills be removed, 
but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, 
    and my covenant of peace shall not be removed, 
    says the Lord, who has compassion on you. 
~Isaiah 54:10 
​On Monday morning a 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Turkey. There have been numerous aftershocks since that time. At this time, the death toll is over 19,000 people with many, many more injured. Countless homes have been leveled. It is estimated that over 300,000 people are displaced because of this natural disaster.  

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For those that lived through this earthquake, I cannot imagine what that must have felt like. I have no reference in my own personal life as to what it is like to lose my loved ones, my home, and so much more, all in the blink of an eye.  

If I am honest, the images are heartbreaking and yet, I have seen images like them so often that my mind wants to become numb to the suffering of the world. But my heart won’t let that happen. God softens the heart and mind to see what sometimes we do not want to see.  

If you are like many, you might be looking for a way to help. One way to help is through prayer. If you’re not sure what to pray, below is a prayer. Otherwise, pray as the Spirit leads you.  

Gracious God,  
Your word of peace stills the storms that rage in our world.  
Bring hope to places that know devastation in aftermath of the earthquake in Turkey. Bring comfort to those who grieve the loss of loved ones and property. Bring healing to those injured.  
Let your love be known through those who work to bring order in the chaos. Help us to shoulder the burden of suffering and make us bearers of the hope that can be found in you. Through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen. 

Another way is by donating to Holy Trinity's mission partner, Lutheran World Relief. LWR is actively coordinating a response, and you can give a monetary gift to LWR as they deliver critically needed resources like water, medical care, shelter, and essential supplies. Click here to give electronically, or you can drop off a check at the church office. 

Thank you for Sharing God's Love when it is needed most. 
​
Peace, 
Travis Segar 
Pastor for Care and Community ​