Pastor Mark Degner, Christ Lutheran Church

He Stills the Storms
Mark Degner

America has been rocked by an extraordinary number of devastating tornadoes and storms with hurricane-force wind gusts. This spring produced the second-most tornadoes on record (to date since records began in 1950, according to the Storm Prediction Center). Tornado activity skyrocketed from late April through May, with more than 780 confirmed tornadoes cutting across the central and eastern US during those two months, the SPC said. Some storms have been deadly. An EF4 that ripped through Greenfield, Iowa, killed five.

In our region, severe weather has caused havoc and destruction. Torrential rains, flooding, hail, and tornadoes have raged. A 52-year-old man drowned in his Iowa basement after the foundation collapsed and debris pinned him down. Flooding is atrocious, at least in two other deaths were weather related. One in South Dakota – caused by heavy rain – flooded areas. Some communities have had failing water and sewer systems, collapsing streets, and homes washed off their foundations. Flooding has destroyed corn and soybean crops.

In Nebraska, the swollen Missouri River has flooded low-lying riverfront roads, homes, and croplands. The river has crested above flood stage levels high enough to flood riverfront roads and flood water wells. In the Blair area, tornadoes have ravaged homes, downed trees and utility poles, and caused hail damage and flooding.

What is going on? Why is this happening? Some people blame climate change. Others say these are "natural disasters." Still others describe them as "acts of God." Is God trying to tell us something? Is this retribution for our national disobedience and sin?

How shall those who believe in God respond to these destructive weather events?

One: Trust the protection and provision of the God who is with us in every storm of life. Our Father promises, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not sweep over you." (Isaiah 43:2). Here’s why: "I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." (v. 3). When we hurt, God hurts. Where we go, He goes.

Our God is stronger than any storm. Its worst is no match for His best. So, pray right now for all those facing devastation today. Trust Him today and every day. No storm is too big or too small for Him. He is our refuge, strength, and shelter. Psalm 46:1 says: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling."

Two: Focus on what matters most. Material things like homes and possessions can be replaced. The people in your life cannot. Demonstrate love and human kindness to those near you. Invest in relationships with others and with Jesus Christ. Referring to the Heavenly Father and Himself, Jesus said, "And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent." (John 17:3). Do you know Jesus Christ as your Friend, Lord, and Savior? Are you in a relationship with Him? Receive Him today.

God is good at all time. He loves you and wants you to be in heaven with Him. That is why He sent His Son to suffer, die, and rise again for your eternal salvation. Lean on Him during all the storms of life! Claim the promise of Psalm 91:1,2, "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, 'My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'"

Pray to the Lord. The psalm writer said of God, "He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed." (Psalm 107:29). Ask Him to do the same with the physical storms we are facing and the personal storms you are enduring in your life.
He stills the storms.

Mark Degner is senior pastor at Christ Lutheran Church in Blair.