The Storm

A couple of years ago my husband and I went on a getaway for our anniversary. We decided to go to Steamboat Springs, Colorado. September is not ski season (we don’t ski anyway), but still there is a lot to do in Steamboat. We also thought there might be a chance to get some good photos of the changing colors of the Aspen trees.

We headed in the direction of Steamboat, enjoying one another’s company. In Rabbit Ears Pass, the snow began to fall. The further we went, the worse the weather became. Soon, we were in a full blown blizzard. The roads became treacherous and Mason was worried that we wouldn’t be able to finish our trip and that we should turn back.

My thought was that we should continue. We’d come to this point, why not keep going? We did keep going. It wasn’t pleasant, but we managed to come out on the other side of the pass without any real problems.

The weekend was fabulous. The sun shone the entire time we were in Steamboat and we were able to relax and enjoy our time together. All too soon it was time to head back to our daily lives. We packed up and headed home.

The trip home was priceless. We were rewarded with some beautiful scenery.  The fresh snow covered evergreen trees and there was a stark contrast between dark and light. Aspen trees with their changing colors of yellows, golds, and reds were also contrasted between the snow that covered them.  What a photographers dream. Many photos were taken on that trip home.

There are times in life when things are going along splendidly. No worries, concerns, or disappointments. Then a storm invades our lives out of nowhere. It becomes difficult to continue on and only with the help and strength from God are we able to do so. At some point after the storm, something beautiful is visible. Perhaps it is a changed life. Or maybe an attitude change. Whatever it might be, God’s hand can be seen in the situation.

My prayer would be that in the midst of the storm, remember that there is something to look forward to on the other side. Yes, it will be difficult. Yes, you will want to give up. But don’t! Continue on and you’ll find a great reward when it is complete.

Vince Gill wrote a song called “The Rock of Your Love.” In the chorus he sings,

“Let the storm clouds roll;

Let the rain flood my soul.

I’ll still be here when the troubles come;

Standin’ on the rock of your love.”

When we know that God is in the midst of the storm with us, it is much easier to weather that storm. His love, His comfort, His strength are all available to us during these difficult times. I pray that we stand on that Rock for stability.

David shares his pain with God in Psalm 61:1-2. He says, “Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.”

God does hear your cry. He hears your prayers. He leads you to the Rock. During those most difficult times, lean on Him. Allow Him to bring you through to see the beauty on the other side.

Mason and I have not seen such a dramatic change in scenery since that trip to Steamboat. We’ve seen some beautiful places since then, but nothing compares to that trip. I once again am thankful to live in this beautiful place called Colorado.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna