When we got to Kerrville, it’s with heavy hearts that we witnessed the impact of the flood. The town is somewhat back to normal in the shops and streets, but the hearts of many are still in so much pain. Today, a man stopped and pointed to my PRAY for Texas shirt with tears in his eyes, as he said “Thank You” with his whole heart, and walked on by. I didn’t even have words in that moment. It’s things like this this just grip you.
Before heading to the Empty Cross, Amy and I met a group at a coffee shop that were on their way to the Empty Cross as well. They had a ministry of comfort dogs to just love on people, which we thoroughly enjoyed meeting.
Outside, the waters are subsided and still, but down river first responders spend tireless days searching through the wreckage. I can’t even begin to image what they must be going through. Amy met a first responder by the river our today, and was able to pray with her. She was able to connect Amy with other first responders, to pray with later on. The Empty Cross has also been staying open extra late to give time for them to come for prayer.
But as you walk through town, the most stark reminder of all is the memorial wall overlooking the Guadeloupe. Flowers, stuffed animals, photos, and loving words take your breath away. We simply do not know the struggle everyone here has gone through, but our hearts are for them, to be used any way we can.
And for me, probably the greatest impact was seeing a campground I used to visit often. This is actually where Amy and I had met the previous fall, on a friend’s birthday adventure. The campground was gorgeous, with beautiful cabins. Now, every last one of them is washed out, and the land leveled. My heart just breaks. I knew the management. They were beautiful people. I just pray they and their families got out okay.
If there’s one thing I know, God’s given us an enormous heart for Kerrville. And His heart is here, deep in the heart of Texas. He’s got plans for this place. When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him. (Isaiah 59:19)
