Wind and Rain...and what Comes After

This place brings to mind the journey of my heart. It makes me think of the grace of God. It reminds me of promises and assurances...you may not be tracking with me on this, and that's all right. Regardless of that, the pictures you see below will hopefully amaze you.

It rains here. A lot. At least it does right now. Winter here in Turkey, especially on the southern coast, is the rainy season...and when I say rainy, do I ever mean it. We've had three torrential downpours in the past two weeks. A few nights ago, I woke up around 3 in the morning to lightening flashing across the sky, thunder echoing between the buildings, rain and hail pounding on my window. I lay awake just listening to the raging winds howling through the streets.

It made me think of the turmoil that can come to my heart. The anxieties and fears that one would not expect, or ones that one might expect, can come and surprise you when you least expect it.

I took a walk in the rain the other night, as I do...rather often (LOVE the rain). This time, I was struck with the power of the storm...and also the One who makes them. This time, I didn't think of struggles, but I saw the power and majesty of the wind. I walked down to the Mediterranean  soaked to the skin, grinning all the way. I couldn't see 20 feet in front of my face. Palm trees were bent almost double, the wind whipped the water around. At the base of the cliff I was next to I could hear the pounding of the waves smashing against the rocks. I was in awe.

Storms can be cleansing. Natural ones wash the streets clean, bring life to the flora, and nourishment to the fauna. Internal storms can wash away fear and anxiety when you place your trust and hope in the One who is the giver of life. As struggles come, as storms blow about you, the are a chance for growth and strength and self-examination. Becuase what comes after a storm...

...is totally worth weathering it.