Transitional General Presbyter’s Article, July 16, 2025

This past Sunday I had the privilege of visiting with the saints of First Presbyterian

Church of Kerrville. On the way there, the pouring rain was downright scary, making

visibility almost impossible, and our phones were buzzing with dreaded warnings about

flash floods. This must have been triggering to a lot of local people. I expected no one to

attend the Adult Sunday School or worship service.

Amazingly, people showed up, demonstrating an incredible resilience and a hopeful

spirit in the midst of crisis and chaos. I shared with them the greetings, love, prayers

and support from Mission Presbytery and the Synod of the Sun, as well as throughout

our entire PCUSA denomination. Our connectional nature as Presbyterians shines

bright especially in times like these. We are reminded that we are the Body of Christ,

and when one part hurts, we all hurt.

In the wake of the devastating floods, we have seen an outpouring of generosity and

kindness from all walks of life that reflects the very heart of God’s hospitality.

Like Abraham welcoming strangers at the Oak of Mamre (this Sunday’s Old Testament

lesson), countless individuals have opened their hands and hearts to meet the urgent

needs of our community.

From the donors who have sent resources and prayers to the rescue teams and

volunteers working tirelessly on the ground, these acts are reminders of the unshakable

resurrection hope we share as children of God.

We give thanks for the heroic efforts of those who, like the Good Samaritan (last week’s

Gospel lesson), stepped into the suffering of others without hesitation. Your compassion

and sacrificial giving have been a source of comfort and strength.

As Jesus reminds Martha in this week’s Gospel lesson, service with a spirit of love and

attentiveness reflects the true meaning of hospitality - not just through action but

through care and presence. The ministry of presence should currently be done by

invitation, so we do not overwhelm the first responders’ efforts in the area.

To our local community, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for the neighbors who

assisted each other, demonstrating the beauty of our shared humanity. In times of

crisis, you all have embodied a spirit of selflessness that reminds us of Martha’s service

and Mary’s attentiveness - balancing action with love. Through these efforts, God’s

grace has been made tangible among us.

We are also thankful for all of you who listened and responded to this tragedy. Whether

through prayer, donations, or physical labor, every contribution has planted seeds of

hope, reminding us that God’s kingdom is built on such acts of mercy and generosity.

Like Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet, you have listened and responded, and continue to do

so, with intentional care.

The people of Kerrville who showed up that early Sunday morning, under the pouring

rain and closed roads, lifted my spirit up tremendously. Their resilience represented the

courageous spirit of the Hill Country folks. They seemed eager to get going with the task

of rebuilding their communities. We commit to be here for all these communities as they

seek to rebuild their lives and livelihoods. With your commitment and continued support,

the Hill Country folks will know that they are not alone. God is with us, all of us,

especially at this difficult hour! We do not lose hope, for our resurrection hope is

anchored on the solid rock of Jesus Christ, our Risen Lord.

And for that, we give thanks, honor and praise to God!

Amen!

Rev. Bobby Musengwa 

Transitional General Presbyter