My children sat staring out the living room window, watching the Friday afternoon rain. Disappointment flooded our home with tears and words of frustration. “Why is it raining? ” Emily cried. “I’ve been looking forward to this all week.” And she had. We all had.
My heart sank along with our hopes and dreams for a bit of fun…
Friday night we were scheduled to go to the Lookouts’ baseball game, but it was more special than that. We were supposed to use Unum’s box seats – one of the fun perks from Michael’s job with Unum. And – there were fireworks on the calendar. Not to mention there were hot dogs to be eaten, which I personally love, but only at a ball game. Our whole family had been looking forward to the fun.
While Emily and Isaac sat on the couch, watching the droplets run down the window pane, I went back to my room. And I began to pray as any praying mother would do. I told the Lord that my children were so frustrated and that they really needed to go to this baseball game tonight, could He please just blow these clouds of rain on through to North Carolina or something?
And He did.
The storm moved on through and we went to the game. It was slightly overcast, breezy and a cool 72. Usually when we go to the Lookouts games it is hot, in the 90’s and sticky, with so much humidity that we don’t manage to stay to the end of the game. This time we made it all the way to the end of the game and watched the winning pitch. Yes, miracle of miracles – the Lookouts won, much to my daughter’s pleasure.
As we sat in our box seats, our tummies full of popcorn, peanuts and hotdogs, the fireworks that we had been anticipating began to explode. I took just a few moments to reflect as they popped and sizzled. Bombastically they were proclaiming God’s greatness to me again, in a new and refreshing way. These fireworks were a picture of His love for me – bold, bright and larger than life.
God, my Heavenly Father, in His great love and mercy had allowed the rain; the cool front that it brought eventually created the perfect evening for our family. Even when we thought all was lost, He was orchestrating His plan for our very best. Circumstances do not control His ways – Each tiny detail of my life is subject to His will and His direction. Friday night, He knew that our family needed to experience His love and affection, at a great ball game, eating a few hotdogs, and watching some beautiful fireworks. I thought it was just for my children – but it was truly a wonderful evening that all five of us needed.
How many times will I need Him to demonstrate His love for me? Again and again, until eternity begins. Thankfully, He is prepared to love me forever. It is this reality that keeps all of the hopes and dreams, for me and my little family afloat.
Here are words from the middle verse of one of my favorite worship songs:
Oh how great Thy loving kindness, vaster, broader than the sea.
Oh, how marvelous Thy goodness lavished all on me.
Yes, I rest in Thee, Beloved, know what wealth of grace is Thine,
Know Thy certainty of promise and have made it mine.
Jesus, I am resting, resting in the joy of what Thou art,
I am finding out the greatness of Thy loving heart.
daily portion 