‘Why Does God Allow Tragedy?’ – Pastor Responds After Deadly Texas Floods

After deadly floods in Texas claimed over 100 lives, including campers at a Christian retreat, Pastor Travis Burleson addresses the tough question: “Why does God allow tragedy?” while urging faith in God’s sovereignty amid heartbreak.

Following the devastating flash floods that swept through parts of Texas on Friday, claiming at least 104 lives, Pastor Travis Burleson says many are wrestling with the question: “Why does God allow bad things to happen?”

Among the victims were at least 27 girls and staff from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp. Ten girls and one counsellor remain unaccounted for as search efforts continue.

Speaking to Premier, Pastor Burleson acknowledged the anguish in his community and pointed to the importance of faith in times of crisis. “God doesn’t just allow bad things to happen to good people—He allows bad things to happen to all people,” he said. “Does He stop every tragedy? No. But He can redeem them and work through them.”

He continued, “We live in a broken, fallen, sin-marred world. This isn’t heaven—heaven is still to come. Until then, we must hold on to our faith and face life’s storms head-on.”

Burleson urged Christians to remember that God remains sovereign, even while suffering. “Jesus made it clear—we will face trouble in this world. But He also said, ‘Take heart, I have overcome the world.’ That hope carries us through.”

In the wake of the tragedy, churches across Kerr County have organized prayer vigils, while Texas Governor Greg Abbott has called for prayers and support for all those impacted.

Camp Mystic, situated along the Guadalupe River and operating for nearly 100 years, serves as a retreat for young Christians seeking to reconnect with their faith over the summer. The pastor defended the camp’s location, noting that many recreational camps in Texas are situated near old creek beds.

“I don’t think we can blame the camp for where it’s built,” he said. “The storm just hit that particular area hard. It was a tragic circumstance.”

He explained that the cabins filled rapidly with floodwaters, even though they weren’t swept away entirely. “It happened so fast,” he said.

Pastor Burleson shared that a nearby church, led by a colleague, opened its doors immediately as a triage center and place of refuge for distraught families. “Parents came rushing in, desperate for answers. People slept on pews and floors while waiting for news. Some of the campers are related to members of that church—it’s been heartbreaking.”

In response, Christian aid groups Samaritan’s Purse and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association have sent chaplains and a Disaster Relief Unit to the area to offer support and counselling.