“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” - John 8:12 (NIV)

Severe heat wave hits southern Europe, raising wildfire risks

Major heat waves across southern Europe have pushed temperatures above 40 C (104 F) in countries including Italy, Spain and Greece, as local authorities issued fresh warnings against the risk of wildfires. Experts link the rising frequency and intensity of these heat waves to climate change, warning that such extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common across Europe's southern region. Severe heat was recorded in Italy, Greece, Spain and Portugal before the weekend, with locals and tourists alike taking shelter from the sweltering conditions. Two-thirds of Portugal were on high alert last Sunday for extreme heat and wildfires, with temperatures topping 42 C (107 F) in Lisbon. In Italy, a few regions — Lazio, Tuscany, Calabria, Puglia and Umbria — were planning to ban some outdoor work activities during the hottest hours of the day in response to the record-high temperatures. Italian trade unions pushed the government to expand such measures at a national level.

God of all creation, we pray for our neighbors across the Atlantic who are managing punishing heat day after day this summer. We pray for cooling centers, accommodations for workers, care for the young and elderly, and reprieve from the heat for all. Lord, let us not waste a moment to reinforce our need to act decisively to cut GHG emissions and prevent planetary warming that makes life on earth exceedingly difficult.

More than 100 dead in catastrophic Texas flooding as rescue efforts continue

More than 100 people are dead following flooding that slammed Texas Hill Country early Friday morning, according to state officials. At least 27 campers and staff from a Christian summer camp next to the Guadalupe River were killed. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said during a news conference Friday night that the state is committing all the necessary resources to continue with a search and rescue mission, including members of the Texas National Guard and state troopers. The governor issued a disaster declaration for several counties in the state's area known as the Hill Country, about 70 miles north of San Antonio. Abbott said search and rescue missions will continue "in the darkness of the night … seeking for anybody who is not accounted for." He added: "This is a 24/7 effort." At least 237 people have been rescued so far — the majority of them were rescued by helicopters. Texas officials say some of the areas affected remain without power or internet access.

Why, God? We are devastated to learn of those who have been swept away by floods in Texas, Lord. We cannot imagine the fear that was felt at the moment of impact by those caught in the raging waters. For the families of the deceased and all those still missing, we pray your comfort be abundant. Help us, Lord.

U.S. Spending and Tax Bill Signed on Fourth of July

President Trump on Friday signed a massive spending and tax bill to implement much of his domestic policy. The sprawling GOP bill — nearly 1,000 pages — shifts resources from the social safety net and investments in clean energy, and reorients them to finance trillions of dollars in new spending on tax cuts, enforcement of immigration priorities, and military spending. With the passage of this bill, nearly 12 million people are projected to lose their health insurance over the next decade, according to the Congressional Budget Office, a nonpartisan group of staff who provide analysis to support the legislative process.

Jesus, we repeat your words:

Blessed are the poor in spirit,

    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are those who mourn,

    for they will be comforted.

Blessed are the meek,

    for they will inherit the earth.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

    for they will be filled.

Blessed are the merciful,

    for they will be shown mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart,

    for they will see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers,

    for they will be called children of God.

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,

    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Becoming (part of) the Answer to our Own Prayers

Intercultural Congregations Network 

We're thrilled to introduce the new Intercultural Congregations Network from CRC in Canada's Intercultural Ministry. This dynamic network is a fantastic resource for any congregation looking to be better equipped and encouraged in their journey of welcoming, integrating, and growing with people from all cultures. Learn more here. 

Disability and Accessibility Survey

Every church has people with disabilities in it. The question is not if they are there. The question is whether or not people with disabilities are experiencing belonging. Thrive has created a tool for church leaders to invite your congregation to complete a disability and accessibility survey and help you understand how your church is doing. Request your church-specific survey link to get started.