Whatever the Weather

Here in Arequipa it never rains, well close to never.  I think it's rained 5-7 times in the 10.5 months I've been here and by rain I mean, a light sprinkle.  Today is one of those days, abnormally cool and breezy.  I decided to go for a run today - for some that is painful, for me it's a sure fire way to find clarity.  As the air started to dampen and a light sprinkle began to caress my skin, it made me think about how pleasant sunshine always is - when we feel as though there's not a cloud in the sky or figurately in our lives - but how refreshing it is to encounter the closeness with God that comes when the sky darkness and the rain starts to fall.  Our attention is turned to the difference in our circumstances that are out of our control --that tends to send our eyes heavenward asking God a plethora of questions.  The reality is that without the rain nothing grows; it shrivels up and dies.  Though a life without strife or struggle appears sunny and swell, the soil of one's soul lacks the lush growth that comes with weathering tribulation in his or her own life or alongside someone else.  The sprinkle of rain upon my skin reminded me of God's tender grace and mercy renewing my life it times of despair, confusion, or sorrow; therefore, in whatever comes my way the rains of his mercy and grace will continue to refresh my soul when skies are gray.  Thank you Lord for your sweet, sweet presence.