As Hurricane Milton approached western Florida in early October, storms were already raging in the lives of many people in its path. Storms of grief and loss. Of chronic pain and illness. Of heartache and emptiness.
Then, less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene tore through the region, Hurricane Milton was on their doorstep. The flurry of destruction not only ruined homes but left an emotional toll in many hearts. That’s why Billy Graham Rapid Response Team chaplains from BGEA of Canada deployed to the Tampa Bay area to support victims and point them to Jesus Christ.
They spoke with Max* who had long suffered from back and brain injuries. As he shared openly about his struggles, the chaplains sensed an opportunity to share the hope of the Gospel. “This is just the beginning!” Max declared, after praying to accept Jesus Christ as his Savior.
At another house, chaplains had a conversation with a homeowner’s teenage son. It became clear that he was ready to start his faith journey, so chaplains asked if he wanted to make Christ the Lord of his life. “His reply was instant and full of conviction as he boldly said, ‘I do!’” a chaplain reported. He prayed to receive Jesus Christ in repentance and faith. The chaplains gave him a Bible and a copy of Living in Christ by Billy Graham.
While the chaplains visited another damaged property, the homeowner, June,* shared how she was wrestling with the trauma of losing two children and a grandchild prior to the hurricanes. The chaplains had an opportunity to share the hope of the Gospel with her. June said she wanted to surrender her life to Jesus Christ and prayed with the chaplains as she made that decision.
Doug* expressed his doubt that God heard his cries for help as he rode out the hurricanes. “Yes, He did answer your prayer. Look—we are here!” a chaplain replied gently, gesturing toward the other chaplains and a team of Samaritan’s Purse volunteers cleaning up his home. “God sent all of us to you!”
Please join us in praying for these homeowners and others who continue to grapple with destruction from hurricanes Helene and Milton. Your prayers and support make it possible to share the unshakable hope found in Christ alone.
*Name changed to protect privacy
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