Admire is not the right word, but it's close. I mean, how can you look at the immense power and discipline of storms like these and not be in awe? It's really no wonder that peoples all across the globe still worship some element of nature or other. Nature is mighty, and we are small in its midst.
In the face of a storm like Ida (and on the anniversary of Katrina, no less), we need to get honest with ourselves. We must reckon once again with our limits, and remember that we are mortal creatures. Now is exactly the right time to look at your life and ask if you've lived it well. Now is the time for repentance.
selah
And yet, now too is the time for prayer--and prayers of faith at that. Because, though nature is a god in its own right, our God is the great God, the great King above all gods. What is a hurricane to him who set the sun in its place?
So humble yourself before the storm--its gravity, its threat, even its majesty. But let that humility point you forward to humility before the one who made the sea. And then remember that, because of what Christ has done, your prayers reach his ears. Remember, too, that he loves you.
Lord, we lift our eyes to heaven and entreat you to preserve us. Set the boundaries for this storm; reign in its power, for we are humbled before you. Strengthen our levees. Strengthen our oaks. Keep the waters and the winds at bay for the sake of those who are called according to the name of Jesus and for your glory.
And Lord, let many come to Christ in Ida's wake.
In the name of Jesus.
Amen.
For the Lord is a great God
and a great King above all gods.
In his hands are the depths of the earth;
the heights of the mountains are his also.
The sea is his, for he made it,
and his hands formed the dry land. (Psalm 95:3-5)