Lessons From the Thunderstorms

I am really delighted in the rain; no matter the ferocity I often marvel at every detail, the thunder, the lightning and the paths of the runoff; I delight in the magnitude of a great storm. I have also often enjoyed at a winter's snow, ever since I moved north a bit; its solitude is delicious, and you can listen closely to the snow flakes deflecting off of the trees and a nearby roof; it sets the stage for the mournful whispering wind, with its crisp bite and siren calls to you.

When I was a kid I would often go out on our porch during a thunderstorm; from my post, I would view the neighbors making for their shelter and I would marvel from my perch, like the old bird keeping watch over the neighborhood with an approving nod; this was God's symphony and I was an observer from the mezzanine with a chance to see it over and over. Sometimes, when my parents were not home, I would move my seat to the hill at the edge of the woods; this was my sanctuary and only the snakes, birds and the other animals knew the place better. This is where I carved out life; where I dealt with emotions; I prayed, made life decisions and stolled with my guitar when it was'nt foul weather. Today, during my vacation we were caught in a torrential downpour. I was transported to that porch, to that wooded glade and amidst the hundreds of strangers struggling to free themselves from its throngs, I was once again joyful to see my old friend again. This is my reminder of God's enormity, of His power. It reminds me that He cares for His creation and He provides for a cleansing flood to water the earth, to care for the "lillies of the field", to touch the the Creation that we sometimes spoil by our existence. Oh taste and see that the Lord is good and his mercies are anew. Next time you have the occasion, let my friend the rain show you the Touch of God. With fond admiration; I am Sherrell