Bogor and Bekasi were again hit by major floods due to prolonged heavy rain that poured since early March 2025. The peak was a flash flood in Puncak, Bogor, on Sunday night, March 2, followed by major flooding in Jabodetabek, especially Bekasi, on Tuesday, March 4. The high rainfall submerged residential areas, with water levels reaching two meters in several areas such as Pondok Gede to Pekayon.

In the midst of this difficult situation, the Indonesian Bible Society (LAI) on March 12, 2025, paid a loving visit to nine staff and three retirees affected by the flood. In addition to providing moral support, LAI also distributed financial assistance to those in need. This assistance is expected to ease the burden of those who have to struggle to clean their homes from mud, repair furniture, and overcome various health problems after the flood.

Surviving in the Midst of Strong Currents

Evri Pandelaki, a former LAI staff member, experienced an extraordinary incident when a flood hit his house in Bekasi. He initially did not expect the water to rise to the second floor of his house. “The flood in our house was as high as an adult’s calf on the second floor,” he said. The house was adjacent to the embankment, making it impossible to evacuate because of the strong current. Even rubber boats were unable to penetrate the strong flood. Together with his family, he survived on the second floor for a day and a night, waiting for the water to recede.

Lukas Mamarodia, a retiree from LAI, had a similar experience. In the previous flood, he even had to swim 700 meters to save himself. “Fortunately, my wife and child were on duty at church at the time, so they were safe,” he said. The condition of the house after the flood receded became the next challenge. The settled mud, piles of garbage, and damaged furniture made recovery difficult. “I couldn’t open the door,” said Triatmi, one of the flood victims. The dried mud that was half as high as the walls made it difficult for her to clean her house.

Hope Amid Suffering

This disaster has indeed left sorrow and loss, but behind it lies a lesson in faith and fortitude. Triatmi said, “God works in everything, in everything. What we can do is surrender and trust. Every step I take is controlled by God, we should not control God.”

This message is in line with Father Albertus’ reflection on LAI’s anniversary, “Most of the Old Testament was written during the exile in Babylon, when the Israelites lost their way. The Torah, which is the core of their spirituality, was born in the midst of suffering. In other words, the Holy Bible is a spirit that lifts people from their slump.”

Disasters are indeed unavoidable, but love and concern can be a light for those affected. The loving visit carried out by LAI is real proof that in the midst of difficulties, there is still hope that brings strength to those who are struggling to get back on their feet.