Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God
Oh, it chases me down, fights 'til I'm found, leaves the 99
- Reckless Love, Cory Asbury
In Turkey, tensions between Turkish citizens and Syrian refugees have escalated, resulting in attacks on Syrians and their property. This unrest is mirrored in northern Syria, where locals have clashed with Turkish soldiers. The violence has led to at least seven deaths in Syria and highlights the strained relations between Syrians and Turks. Economic struggles and political shifts have exacerbated these tensions. Many Turks blame the 3.1 million Syrian refugees for economic issues, while Syrians fear abandonment by Turkey. President Erdogan's consideration of restoring ties with Syrian President Assad has added to the unease.
Heavenly Father, we lift up Turkey and Syria during this time of turmoil. Bring peace and understanding between the communities, and protect the innocent from harm. May Your love permeate people and guide leaders to seek justice and reconciliation. Help those suffering from violence and fear to find refuge.
Hurricane Beryl, now a Category 4 storm, is headed toward Jamaica and the Cayman Islands after causing extensive damage in Grenada. Carriacou and Petite Martinique, two small islands, were devastated, with 98% of buildings damaged or destroyed and no electricity or communication. Grenada's Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell described the destruction as "total" and linked it to global warming. The storm's impact includes three deaths in Grenada, with additional fatalities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Venezuela. Jamaica and the Cayman Islands are preparing for Beryl's arrival, imposing curfews and evacuation orders.
Creator God, we pray for those affected by Hurricane Beryl. Comfort the grieving, heal the injured, and provide for those who have lost everything. Strengthen communities as they rebuild and protect those in the storm's path.
President Biden has proposed new worker protections against dangerous heat and announced nearly $1 billion to help communities build resilience to weather-related disasters. Biden’s remarks, among his most forceful on climate change, also denounced Republican lawmakers opposing his policies. The proposed regulation from OSHA aims to protect workers in high-heat conditions, which have increasingly threatened health and productivity. Biden's emphasis on climate action seeks to address both environmental and labor concerns.
Help us to be stewards of Your creation, seeking solutions that honor Your will. Guide communities to build resilience and support those affected by natural disasters. May Your grace bring comfort to those impacted by heat waves and other climate-related events. Empower us to act with love and responsibility for future generations.
Ottawa is considering buying hotels to house asylum seekers more sustainably and affordably, according to Immigration Minister Marc Miller. Currently, the federal government leases hotels for around 7,300 asylum seekers, costing $115 million annually. The plan includes converting hotels and installing federal and provincial officials to provide services. The government has also allocated $1.1 billion over three years to support municipalities and provinces with asylum seeker housing. Prime Minister Trudeau recently pledged $750 million to Quebec to assist with the influx, as the federal government continues to explore more sustainable solutions.
Heavenly Father, we lift up the situation of asylum seekers in Canada. Grant wisdom to the leaders making decisions about their housing and care. Provide comfort and hope to those seeking refuge, and help communities to welcome them with open hearts. May Your love guide efforts to find sustainable and compassionate solutions.
In April, over 40 pastors gathered in Anaheim, Calif., for the Revelation 7 Pastors Retreat. Born from the experience of a CRC pastor peer group that formed in 2021, this gathering centered on four themes found in Revelation 7: Christ-focused discipleship, Christlike leadership, Spirit-empowered life balance, and multiethnic community. Continue Reading Here »
Some stories of disability within the Bible have historically been portrayed in a way that diminishes the disability story and the value of seeing God’s image within that person. However, a careful evaluation shows the story is less about offering a cure to a disabled person and more about healing relationships and restoring a sense of community and well-being. Join us in reflecting on the story of Jesus and the man born blind. Read Here »
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