Texas Flood Tragedy: Campers Missing, Dozens Dead
More than 120 people are confirmed dead and over 170 remain missing following catastrophic flash floods that devastated Central Texas, particularly Kerr County, now the epicentre of the crisis. Among the worst affected was Camp Mystic, a girls’ summer camp near Hunt, where at least 27 campers and counsellors perished when the Guadalupe River rose 26 feet in just 45 minutes. Hundreds of rescuers from state, federal, and local agencies continue search operations, aided by a federal disaster declaration signed by President Trump.
The floods struck during the July 4th weekend, inundating the flood-prone Texas Hill Country. Most of the fatalities occurred in Kerr County, but deaths were also reported in five additional counties. Rescuers face significant obstacles: low-water crossings that became impassable islands, poor cell coverage, and lack of early warning systems.
Emergency response has drawn scrutiny. While 22 escalating alerts were issued by the National Weather Service, residents reported not receiving warnings or underestimating the storm’s severity. Kerr County officials admitted no siren system was in place and cited previous failed attempts to secure funding. The Trump administration has rejected claims that recent staff cuts at federal weather agencies hindered local preparedness.
Questions have also arisen over why Camp Mystic did not evacuate ahead of the storm, unlike other camps in the area. Officials stated that Hill Country evacuations are complex and can sometimes increase risk due to terrain and infrastructure limitations.
Governor Greg Abbott confirmed that one child outside the camp remains missing and Health and Human Services plans to declare a public health emergency. State leaders have pledged legislative action to address emergency communication failures and improve future disaster preparedness.
As the waters slowly recede, grief deepens across communities reeling from this sudden loss of life particularly among families of the many children who died. Amid the heartbreak, first responders press on with courageous resolve to find the missing and comfort the mourning.
Prayer Pointers:
Pray: for God’s comfort over grieving families, especially those who’ve lost children, and for the safe return of the missing.
Pray: ask God for renewed strength and protection for exhausted rescue teams searching through treacherous flood zones and debris fields.
Pray: and intercede for wisdom and integrity in investigations, and for future emergency systems to protect the vulnerable and prevent further loss.
Prayer for the grieving and rescue workers:
Lord, have mercy on Texas. Comfort grieving families, strengthen rescue workers, and bring the missing home. Heal every heart shattered by this flood. Let wisdom and compassion guide every response. We cry out for Your nearness in this sorrow. Amen.
“The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
For more: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/texas-floods-missing-people-death-toll-climbs/
Iran - Israel Conflict: After the Strikes, What Comes Next?
In recent weeks, the Middle East has witnessed dramatic military escalation and an equally surprising pause. After the U.S. launched precision airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, following Iran’s support for a multi-front assault on Israel, an uneasy ceasefire has taken hold. Despite fears of region-wide retaliation, Iran’s response was muted, and its allied militias remained largely inactive. What was long feared as a trigger for all-out war has, for now, revealed the limits of Iran’s power.
The conflict began brewing after the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel. Iran openly supported Hamas and Hezbollah, prompting Israeli and U.S. strikes that dismantled key elements of Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure. Iran’s expected allies; Russia, China, and North Korea, offered no tangible support. In fact, nations like China called for de-escalation, highlighting the fragility of so-called anti-Western alliances.
Though military action proved effective in neutralizing threats, it’s not a long-term solution. Both Israel and the United States must now engage diplomatically to prevent Iran from rebuilding its nuclear capabilities. The upcoming expiration of international sanctions in October presents a key window: Iran must return to compliance or face renewed sanctions and further isolation.
There are tentative hopes for a ceasefire in Gaza and revived diplomatic momentum potentially expanding the Abraham Accords and promoting regional cooperation. However, these efforts hinge on securing hostages and restoring stability in Gaza.
From a biblical worldview, these events underscore two truths: the volatility of earthly powers and the Lord’s unchanging sovereignty. While military might may restrain evil for a season, only the Prince of Peace can bring lasting peace. As Israel defends itself and nations reassess their alliances, believers are called to pray earnestly, faithfully - for God’s hand to move amid the shaking.
Prayer Pointers
- Pray: that peace will be pursued through diplomacy, not just deterrence, and that leaders seek God's justice over political gain.
- Pray: for the Lord to protect believers in Iran and Israel and strengthen their bold witness during this time of upheaval.
- Pray: for the softening of hardened hearts among leaders, that they may respond to conviction and turn toward peace with humility.
Prayer – Prayer for the Church and those in Leadership
Lord, restrain the hand of the violent and raise up peacemakers. Turn leaders’ hearts toward truth, humility, and justice. Strengthen Your church in the Middle East to shine brightly, even in shadows. Let peace take deeper root. Amen.
Watch / Listen / Meditate to ‘The Lord is My Shepherd’ sung by Carolyn Hyde
“The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will.”
- Proverbs 21:1 (ESV)
More: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/06/30/politics/iran-israel-military-success-path-diplomacy-analysis
Rwanda Peace Deal: A Fragile Step Toward Healing
After decades of violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a new peace agreement between DRC and Rwanda has sparked cautious hope for healing in one of the world’s most afflicted regions. Signed on June 27 in Washington, D.C., the accord is being called a “significant step toward peace” by international leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres and the African Union.
The eastern DRC has long suffered under the grip of armed groups, most notably the M23 rebel group, which has overrun cities, displaced hundreds of thousands, and committed serious human rights abuses. While the Congolese government accuses Rwanda of backing the M23, they’ve denied this, claiming it has acted defensively. Nevertheless, as part of this new agreement, Rwanda has pledged to withdraw its troops from Congolese territory, while both sides will work to demobilize and disarm militias, including the M23 and the FDLR.
The deal also promises a regional economic framework within 90 days, targeting critical minerals like tantalum and lithium, resources vital to global technology but often tied to exploitation and instability in the region. The United States, along with Qatar and the African Union, played a key role in brokering the agreement.
While this accord marks a diplomatic breakthrough, concerns remain. Critics argue that past peace deals have collapsed due to poor enforcement and a lack of accountability. Notably, representatives of M23 were not part of the talks, and observers including Nobel laureate Dr. Denis Mukwege, have warned that the agreement overlooks justice for victims of violence, particularly women and children.
A joint security body will now be tasked with monitoring compliance over the next three months. Success depends on more than paper promises. It will require courage from leaders, protection for civilians, and a true willingness to disarm both hearts and weapons.
Prayer Pointers
- Pray: lasting peace in the DRC—that this agreement would lead to true healing, justice, and demilitarization across communities.
- Pray: Lift survivors of violence - ask God to restore dignity, bring justice, and raise up godly leaders to defend the vulnerable.
- Pray: that greed would not overtake governance, and that resource wealth would be stewarded with righteousness and compassion.
Prayer – Praying for the peace to reign
Father, bring lasting peace to the heart of Africa. Disarm every force of violence and raise up leaders of truth. Heal the wounds of the past, protect the weak, and let justice roll like a river across the Great Lakes region. Amen.
“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” Psalm 9:9 (NIV)
More: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/african-news/landmark-dr-congo-rwanda-peace-agreement-widely-welcomed/
Ukraine: Missiles Delayed, Mercy Needed
Amid intensifying warfare in Ukraine, the United States has paused several weapons shipments to Kyiv, citing the need to prioritize national defence readiness. The decision, confirmed by the White House, reflects growing concerns that U.S. stockpiles are being stretched too thin after more than two years of heavy support for Ukraine.
Key shipments impacted include Patriot air defence systems and precision-guided munitions vital tools in Ukraine’s effort to defend against relentless Russian aerial attacks. The pause arrives just days after Ukraine endured its most massive aerial assault yet: more than 500 missiles and drones targeted Ukrainian cities, killing civilians and damaging infrastructure.
While the U.S. insists the strength of its military remains unshaken, this moment marks a turning point in American support. Defence leaders are reassessing how best to balance aiding allies with safeguarding homeland readiness. Ukrainian officials have responded with concern, calling the decision painful amid Russia’s increasing gains, including full control of the eastern Luhansk region and territory in Dnipropetrovsk.
Tensions in the region remain high. Russia’s President Putin recently reiterated his claim that Ukraine “is ours,” while Kremlin forces continue their slow advance. Yet, Ukraine has also struck deep into Russian territory, targeting arms facilities with long-range drones. Meanwhile, international diplomacy stirs again: French President Macron held his first conversation in over two years with Putin, urging a ceasefire and negotiations.
The U.S. decision comes just weeks after President Trump’s face-to-face with Ukrainian President Zelensky at the NATO summit. While the two leaders have had a rocky relationship, talks have resumed, and prior suspensions of military aid and intelligence sharing were eventually reversed.
For followers of Christ, this pause is more than policy it’s a reminder of the sobering cost of war, the weariness of nations, and the need for lasting peace. Military might can delay destruction, but it cannot rebuild hearts, cities, or hope. Our ultimate trust is not in weapons or alliances, but in the God who “makes wars cease to the ends of the earth” (Psalm 46:9).
Prayer Pointers (One Min Prayer for Ukraine & Russia https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uoX_5peamEQ )
- Pray: Ukrainian civilians caught in the crossfire, that God would be their shield, refuge, and source of hope.
- Pray: and ask the Lord to give discernment to U.S. and global leaders as they balance aid, readiness, and long-term peace.
- Pray: for softening in hardened hearts on both sides of the war—that the Spirit of God would stir repentance and peace.
Prayer – Praying for Peace for Ukraine & Russia
Lord God, protect the innocent in Ukraine and Russia alike. Let mercy interrupt violence. Give leaders courage to pursue peace, not pride. Break the weapons of war and raise up Your church to bring healing where fear and hatred have taken root. Amen.
“He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow and shatters the spear.” Psalm 46:9 (ESV)
Video 2 - 'Lord, Use Me' - an inspiring talk from Rick Warren. (26:17) See IPC Connections Editorial article 2 for the full transcript.