08/15/2026
đŁ Do you or a neighbor need help?
Dear Bethlehem Family, Friends, and Neighbors,
As many of you have seen, the heavy rain and historic flooding throughout Carmel, Noblesville, Indianapolis, and the surrounding communities have caused significant damage to homes, roads, and neighborhoods.
I want to make sure we know if anyone in our congregation has been affectedâbut I also want to hear about your neighbors. And by âneighbors,â I mean it in the biblical sense: your friends, family, coworkers, actual next-door neighbors, or anyone else you know who may need help.
If you or someone you know has experienced flooding or damage and could use assistance, please email me at [email protected] or call/text me at 608.855.0151. Even if you aren't sure yet what kind of help is needed, please reach out to let us know who is affected.
I am also in contact with Pastor Dan Sims, Director of WELS Christian Aid & Relief, so that we can coordinate additional help and resources if they are needed.
đ§ď¸ Comfort in the Storm
Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. âYou of little faith,â he said, âwhy did you doubt?â Matthew 14:31
When waters rise, roads disappear, homes take on water, and we watch the damage happening around our community, we are reminded how little control we actually have. Peter knew that feeling. One moment he was walking toward Jesus; the next, he saw the wind and waves and began to sink. In his fear, Peter cried out, âLord, save me!â Immediately, Jesus reached out and caught him.
Jesus has not promised his people lives without storms, floods, loss, or fear. He has promised us something far greater: himself. The Savior who reached for Peter has already rescued us from our greatest dangerâsin and deathâthrough his cross and resurrection. Because we belong to Christ, even when the waters rise and the future feels uncertain, his promises have not moved. Secure in those promises, we can also turn toward the people around usâchecking on a neighbor, opening our homes, sharing what we have, helping with cleanup, providing a meal, or simply being present with someone who is afraid.
đ Let us pray:
Almighty God, ruler of wind and wave, protect all those affected by the flooding in our community. Comfort those who are frightened or facing loss. Give wisdom, strength, and courage to first responders, emergency workers, utility crews, volunteers, and all who are helping their neighbors. According to your gracious will, cause the waters to recede and protect those who remain in danger.
Move us to see and serve our neighbors in their need. When fear and uncertainty threaten to overwhelm us, turn our eyes again to Jesus and his unchanging promises. Thank you for the salvation he has won for us and for the certain hope that nothing in all creation can separate us from your love in Christ Jesus our Lord.
In Jesusâ name we pray. Amen.
Please donât hesitate to reach out if you or someone you know has been affected by the flooding or could use help. Iâm grateful for the opportunity we have as a congregation to care for our neighbors in tangible ways and, above all, to share with them the comfort and hope we have in Jesus, our Lord and Savior.
In Christ,
Pastor King
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
608.855.0151
[email protected]
