A Hymn in response to hurricanes and international flooding

Swirling winds and raging oceans

add to hazards we know well, 

jagged rocks and crashing breakers, 

currents swinging with the swell, 

into such a tortured maelstrom 

boats are launched and lives are saved, 

human beings loved and treasured 

where the waters heaved and raved.

Broken buildings, flooded rivers 

add a challenge to be met, 

nature compounds human carnage, 

sights we never will forget;

here where homes had offered comfort 

devastation meets our eyes 

while the thunder of the waters 

drowns the sound of human cries.

God, we cry, as lives are wasted, 

hold us in this living hell, 

where the floods and rising waters 

bring destruction, hold us well.

Lift us out of dereliction, 

help us reach to those in need, 

love them till all fear has foundered,

till they know they’re safe and freed.

© Andrew Pratt 10/9/2017

Tune: HYFRYDOL
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