As I sit here, watching the storm blow in, I can’t help but remember my childhood at the lake. Sitting on the huge, padded porch swing tucked under the upper level of my grandparents’ cottage, my cousins and I would swing and talk and plan our next excursion for our summer vacation. We’d gather there in storms just like the one today, feeling oh, so safe amidst the pounding rain and the thundering bellow of the clouds. And I realize something.
There is nothing so wonderful and calming and peaceful as feeling safe. Of knowing we are loved.
Those days at the cottage were some of my siblings’ favorite memories of childhood. “Why?” I wonder. I imagine it’s because we gathered as families, loved by parents who cared about giving us little gifts like this — our yearly family vacation. Possibly it was because there, like the adults, we had no cares in the world. They, like us, had left the hustle of work and chores to get away and breathe.
The Gift of a Storm
Then God gives the gift of a storm. The quiet of the rain softly pattering on the roof. The mist brushing our cheeks as we swing on the porch. The slow rumble of the thunder echoing it’s way across the sky. And we have peace — peace amidst the storm.
As I pause and ponder, yes, for the first time in what feels like months, I realize how very important it is to give one another that sense of peace and love. That feeling of being wrapped in a parent’s arms in the storm, knowing we are safe. And loved.
Seek out your children or grandchildren today. Let them know they are loved and safe with you. Let them know you will be by their side. No. Matter. What.
Of course, remember this doesn’t pertain only to children. There are spouses who need that same affirmation. And friends. Even enemies.
If that makes you nervous, go to God, the source of all Love and Peace, and ask Him how to love like this. He’s the expert! His love never fails.
Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13:8
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