Often we may hear of a forecast of bad weather coming, and are warned in order to be prepared. In my hometown, it seems we are often spared the most severe weather, but not always.
In my last entry I wrote about the “Storm Within”. I’m pretty sure that everyone at some time has felt that circumstances, or challenges cause the stress and distress that feel like a “Storm Within”. I don’t like trite cliches, or pat answers, because the reality is that “storms” can hurt, and be destructive. Relationships can be stressed and broken, finances can collapse (economies and other major national issues), health can decline, dearly loved friends or family members die. “…In this world you will have tribulation (troubles)…” (John 16:33—partial)
Jesus said this to His disciples before His death and resurrection. But, the 1st phrase in that verse says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace….” Jesus was giving His disciples the “forecast” of what was ahead. For Him, the MOST severe ‘storm’ (suffering) was about to happen. He knew that in the midst of all the suffering that would be ahead, He would be with them, through His Holy Spirit which He would send them. The final phrase to that incredible verse is “…But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
As my family has gone through its own “storms”, these words resonate SO profoundly!. Jesus is with us! But, in the midst of it all, I wrote the following poem. It is like a sequel to my last poem; for those times when the ‘storms’ DO hit!
After the Storm… the Sun
The thunder boomed, and the lightning flashed
The rain pelted down, the waves on shores crashed.
The weather released its mighty fury and wrath
To all those below, caught in its torrential path.
When our lives endure trials like this fierce storm and rain,
We grow so discouraged and weary from all the pain.
Where is the One who promised us, and said “Do not fear.
I am with you; the Father, Spirit, and I will always be near”?
But then I remember, as the Spirit makes it all clear;
After a storm, God promised the sun will soon appear.
Our suffering has a purpose only He may now know,
But His promise is true, it is this that makes us grow.
Remember storms have a purpose, they bring us the rain
That waters our souls, and brings ‘fruit’ from all our pain.
Take all your troubles, and to Jesus the Healer may you run…
To find your comfort; for after the storm, He is the SON!
Dear Lord, How can we thank You for all Your love for us? Your faithfulness in being with us, through everything we may face is truly an “AMAZING LOVE”!!
Grant us the grace to ‘see’ You when everything seems ‘dark’! (Eph. 2:17-19)
Thank You that You ARE the sun after the storm!! In Your precious name, Amen.