“There is Beauty in the Storm” by Justin March

“God’s voice thunders
in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding.  He says
to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth,’ and to the rain shower, ‘Be a mighty
downpour.’  So that everyone he has made may know his work…He brings the
clouds…to water his earth and show his love.” Job 37:5-7,13

We bought new patio
furniture this summer and have been enjoying lounging outdoors when the
temperature allows.  It has been a good space to reconnect as a family,
have meaningful conversations, and enjoy God’s wonderful creations.  But
since it is new, and we have not done enough research to purchase covers yet,
we find ourselves watching the weather app and making sure we bring all the
cushions inside if there is any threat of rain.  We would rather be
prepared and have them protected, than be surprised and risk the damage that
the water may bring.

As we finished up our
work days and got ready to relax Friday night, the sky got dark and the winds
picked up.  We were tired and beaten down from a busy week, but we knew we
needed to get the patio ready to weather this impending storm.  So, we
garnered up the strength and motivation needed to gather up the cushions.
We brought them into the house and gave them shelter as the clouds came rolling
in.  And as we pulled back that last shade, covered the fire pit, and
locked down the hot tub cover, I got a peaceful feeling of reassurance that all
would be safe as the rains poured down heavily throughout the night.

Are we preparing our spirits, nourishing our souls, and building a solid foundation so we too can
weather the storms?  Are we allowing Jesus to provide shelter in our
lives, protection from the elements, and comfort in His words?  And even
when we are tired and weary, are we pushing ourselves to educate others and
bring them closer to knowing God?

By being prepared, we
can find beauty in the storms.  As I sat on the front porch and watched
the rain come pouring down, the peace that overcame me was astonishing.  I
was encapsulated by the lightning show as each flash danced across the darkened
sky.  I was reminded of my baptism as the rains washed away the dirt from
the sidewalks and the streets.  And I was refreshed by the aroma of the
thundering water as it reminded me that we always have the opportunity to start
anew.

It is now August 1st,
and after a weekend of dark clouds and heavy rain, we are greeted by a day of
sunshine and singing birds.  It is a glorious morning, and my weather app
shows no signs of impending storms.  And as I read God’s words, I
understand how important this bible verse from Job becomes in my life.
Because, as I take the time to reflect this morning, I remember that as I sat
on our front porch Friday night and watched the rain come pouring down, I was
joined by my beautiful daughter and dedicated canines.  They too found
comfort in being together, and as we allowed the peace to come over us that
night, I realize that it was “He who brought the clouds…to water his
earth and show his love.”

Be prepared and allow
the love of God to pour over you this week.  Understand that each day is a
blessing and a chance to start anew.  And make sure that your trust,
faith, and forgiveness build a solid foundation that can withstand any
storm.  When your heart is open, your mind awakened, and your spirit
cleaned from the dirt this world wants to cover you in, you are now ready to
find the peace and beauty that lies within the rainclouds.  Capture it,
relish it, and find comfort in a life where you can see the beauty God is
creating in the storms.  And even if they leave behind some damage and
scars, remember that the love of God is always pouring over you!