Why is all of Texas grieving? How rare is it for a whole state to grieve? And I do mean to be stirred deeply with heavy sadness.

The Guadalupe River is one of the most popular recreational rivers in Texas. It’s a beautiful area. And families, couples, and individuals have loved visiting, camping, and floating the river.

On July 4th at about 4:00am the river rose. Four months of rain came down in one day. The river rose 29 feet while everyone was asleep.

There are 7 large summer camps on the river and 13 smaller ones. One had 750 young girl campers. The sound of hard rain muffled the sound of the rising river.

The sadness includes the loss of innocent lives and the devastation of a state treasure. It also stirs deep grief because thousands upon thousands of Texans have wonderful camp memories. They attended, grew up, and worked at those summer camps.

College students from all over Texas worked as counselors at those camps. It was time for the next generation of children to enjoy a wonderful camp experience. It was supposed to be a time to meet new friends and canoe the river. It was a time for archery, s’mores, and laughter. And a summer full of singing songs and arts and crafts.

The hearts of Texans are heavy. The theme of summer has become devastation. That is why Texas is grieving.

Prayer

Father, please bless and heal us. We are yours. Amen.

Bible

I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
    where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
    the Maker of heaven and earth.

– Psalm 121:1-2 (NIV)