It’s been an interesting day!
Tropical Storm Harvey decided to visit Memphis and brought along heavy rain and winds. Shortly after noon, we heard an all-church page through the intercom instructing us to head to the children’s area and help get the kids in Mothers’ Day Out to the basement. The tornado sirens were going off, and we needed to take cover. (I never realized how many kids we have in MDO until today.)
It was an unexpected interruption, but, one that I actually enjoyed. As we sat in the basement of the church with kids crying and talking and sleeping, there was a sense of community. The MDO workers handed each of us a baby to hold, and I couldn’t help but smile as I watched my senior pastor give a baby his bottle and then lull him to sleep in his arms. I got to love on the baby of one of my young moms. Looking around the room made me thankful that I belong to this body of believers.
After an hour, we were given the all-clear to go back upstairs. But, the heavy rains and winds continued. Tonight, as I’m writing this, I’m watching water roll down the wall in my study at home. I’m guessing a shingle (or two) blew off, and the rain is working its way down from the roof. I can’t do much about it tonight while it’s still pouring down rain, but I have towels and plastic in place trying to minimize the damage inside.
When I think about the people in Texas who have endured flooding and damage from Hurricane Harvey, I can’t complain about a little water running down the wall.
Storms are going to inevitably come, regardless of where we live. It’s also true of life – storms of life are going to impact all of us at some point. It may be an illness, a relationship that’s difficult, a rocky marriage, a loss, or something else that shakes our world. How will we handle these storms when they come?
Tonight, as I listen to the wind and rain beating against the door and windows, I find comfort in God’s words in Isaiah 41:10:
“Do not fear, for I am with you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
What verses do you cling to when you find yourself in a storm?
I’m thankful you’re okay. Prayers continue for those in TX and surrounding areas. My go-to verse is Isaiah 43:2 – “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you…” Blessings!
Thanks, Cathy! And finally, the water has slowed down on the wall. But the cats have been entertained :). I love that verse you shared – also one of my favorites. Thanks for sharing.