"Rain Drops Keep Falling On My Head..."
It has been a wet week. As I write this column I am listening to Creedence Clearwater's "Have you ever seen the rain?" And yes, we have. From children's songs to rock legends, there are many songs about rain. And there are many stories in the Bible about rain - from droughts to floods. But rain, though so simple, is so important, actually imperative for us to even survive.
We see in the Creation narrative that in the beginning there was water: Genesis 1:1-2 (NIV) "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters". And water is such an important part of "our creation". Did you know that the adult human body is up to 60% water. More specifically our brain and heart are 73% water, and the lungs are 83%. Let's face it, rain - water, is awesome! It can quench the thirsty soil and forcefully rip off the side of a mountain.
Rain can be relaxing and a solace to our souls. I love to sit on the back porch when it is raining. So relaxing. Or my "dream escape" is a mountain cabin by a mountain stream. The sound of the water running over the rocks is again relaxing and empowering. Rain, for me at least, can be something that slows me down, refreshes me, refocuses me, and even gives me clarity and strength. And it's just rain! God's simple, important, refreshing, powerful, essential gift of rain.
This week the rains caused by Hurricane Helene have been very destructive and in areas that are not usually so adversely affected by such storms. And this includes folks in our own State. Please keep these people in your prayers as the water begins to settle down. As we know, flooding can be destructive and take a while to recover from.
Closer to home, as the Old Testament Priest Ezra states "But there are many people here and it is the rainy season; so we cannot stand outside" (Ezra 10:13a)
And today we cannot stand outside. The rain, though greatly needed and such a blessing, has caused us to alter our plans for Music in the Vale. It is still on, but everything is now inside. By the way, if you are available around 10 am, several will be moving in equipment, etc., and help would be appreciated. And I hope everyone will get a chance to join us for awesome music, delicious food, fun and fellowship. Do you have a busy day - no problem. Drop by, listen a bit, grab a bite, and enjoy. Also, our neighbor Elaine Husband has an art show today. Elaine's art is beautiful, almost as beautiful as she is.
It's a busy, fun weekend at FCC. I hope to see you today at MIV and tomorrow as we continue our look into Ephesians. Tomorrow we will see Paul sharing with us about "The Ultimate Gift".
Always Remember...
You ARE Loved!
Pastor Lonnie
"More in '24
(You can reach Pastor Lonnie by calling or text 615-496-2502 or send an email to lonniecastle@gmail.com)