In the Texas Hill Country, heavy rains have turned roads into rivers, destroyed homes, cut off entire communities, and changed families forever. Emergency crews continue working nonstop, using boats and helicopters to reach people still trapped by the flood. Among those helping and serving is Jonathan McComb from Corpus Christi, TX. He is part of Texas Search and Rescue, a volunteer group that responds to disasters across the state.
Jonathan’s mission with “TEXSAR” is deeply personal. Ten years ago, he and his family were swept away by a flash flood on the Blanco River in Wimberley, TX. He survived after being carried more than 10 miles downstream, though badly injured. However, his wife Laura and their two children, Leighton and Andrew, did not survive. Thirteen people were killed in that 2015 disaster, but Jonathan McComb was the lone survivor.
In that same flood, his 4-year-old daughter, Leighton, was never found—a fact that continues to drive him today. Now, ten years later, McComb has remarried and has a 5-year-old daughter who knows his story. Before leaving for this latest search, he explained to her why he needed to go: “That was a tough, tough hug when I left her on July 4th to come out here to help and serve others who are in desperate need, but she understood.” For McComb, his work is not just about rescue—it’s about serving, helping, and redemption.
Listen Closely: The story of Jonathan McComb is a reminder that true leadership, grounded in service, is marked by humility, empathy, compassion, and a deep commitment to the well-being of others. Great leaders understand that true influence is not about authority, power, position, or personal gain, but about lifting others up, meeting their needs, and creating environments where people can thrive through having a heart to serve.
They prioritize service to others before self. They inspire trust. They foster loyalty. They bring hope. They build stronger teams. A “servant-first” mindset transforms leadership from a position of power into a calling of purpose. Don’t miss this principle: Your success in life will be measured not by personal accolades, but by the growth, empowerment, and success of those you are leading, influencing, and serving.
Don’t believe it?
Just ask Jonathan McComb.
Love God. Love People. Live Sent.
