Immanuel sent a mission team to Houston during November 1-5 to help with the Hurricane Harvey recovery efforts in Texas.  Immanuel partnered with Trinity Klein Lutheran Church and Salem Lutheran Church in Tomball, as well as with Heart for Texas, in sending a mission team and providing Lowe’s gift cards to families in need to help with the rebuilding efforts.  The mission team installed insulation and drywall in a home for a lady who lives alone and also connected with many other people in the community.  The homeowner mentioned she had sold her stained glass art business last year.  In an overwhelming display of gratitude, she gave Immanuel a Luther Coat of Arms stained glass piece in appreciation for the help she received.  Doing hands-on disaster response work provides a variety of opportunities to help meet people’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs and to experience God’s healing and restoration.  Making landfall in southeast Texas on August 25, Hurricane Harvey has directly impacted about 22 million lives and was the most destructive hurricane in U.S. history.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Through this Hurricane we pray that you would not let the hearts of people despair and their faith in you waiver.  Direct all efforts, attend to the injured, console the bereaved, and protect the helpless.  Bring hope and healing that people may find relief and restoration.  Protect, guide, and give strength to all who serve as volunteers to provide rescue and aid to those affected by this disaster.  Help us to show your divine grace and mercy through the care and love for all impacted by this Hurricane and flooding.  May the power of your Holy Spirit lead people to turn and trust in you as their Lord and Savior.  We pray these things in Jesus’ name.

Amen.