It’s raining in Kansas, supposed to rain all week.  It’s such a blessing, as we are way behind in moisture this year and the spring rains are paramount to a so much of our economy, not to mention my lawn.  And yet I am amazed at how annoyed so many, including myself, can become with the rain.  It interferes with everything: sports, driving, even emotions.  Heck, at church yesterday we even prayed that it would stop long enough for an outdoor wedding that was planned. And then of course, there is always the risk of storms; the hail, wind and tornadoes that so frequently can accompany Kansas rain.  None of us want that.

My spiritual life tends to run along a similar parallel.  It likewise gets a bit dry, but it is a comfortable dry.  I rather enjoy the calmer weather.  Activities and distractions are easier, and the freedom that accompanies the calm can be intoxicating.  Life goes on, and though I realize something is missing, and maybe even occasionally pray for change, there is a part of me that secretly longs to stay laissez faire state of bliss.

And then the rain comes. Maybe even a storm or two. And I, I can become so irritated at it.  It disrupts my plans, drives me indoors, and leaves me longing for those days of peace.  I forget that the rain can be a blessing.  That it is deepening the roots of my very foundation and driving the parchness out of the soil.  And then Jesus (isn’t it interesting that He is also called the Son) appears, and His light is the very energy that allows the rain to do its greatest good.

Now I’m not saying that all rain and all storms are from God.  We have an enemy, and he loves to cause the flood waters to rise and to lead us to a place of despair.  But even in those storms, our King offers his hand, to Father us and to mature us into the life that only He can offer.

I’m still not a fan of rain, but it does have its purpose.  So grab your umbrella and a jacket and get ready.  The harvest is just around the corner.

To the King,

David