The Storm

There are certain times in life where knowing God is there for us is simply not enough. We don't deserve them but yet we seek those tangible reminders that He is present in our lives, that He is in fact in control even when life feels exactly the opposite.

"Is it possible to be lonely when you are surrounded by people at all times? Are you able to feel broken when you are being showered with blessing? Can you still be empty when your plate is completely full?" I feel I have been living amongst these questions for months and months.

This past weekend I was given the opportunity to go home and be in the wedding of my oldest, dearest friend. I don't get the chance to travel back to Chattanooga often, so when I do I want to embrace every moment I am there. Having a few hours to myself, I headed up Signal Mountain to the Brow. I needed time away from the world...to sit on my mountain top, allow my heart to be at peace, and simply talk to God. I talk a lot. I talk so much that I probably miss a lot of the times God decides to talk back. But that day, He didn't talk....He painted his message across the sky.

As I glanced across the skyline, I watched dark clouds, thunder, and lightening begin to come in from the left. When I looked right, however, what did I see.....calm, sunny, blue skies. I sat amazed at how distinct the line was that set the two scenes a part. That's when I saw the message God was sending me. God really does love me. He takes not only moments to listen to my heart, but places me in the right spot, at the right time, to tangibly remind me of something I so often forget.....He IS always there!!! As I continued to sit in awe of that sight I thought to myself how ever present storms are in life, no matter what shape or form they take on. Yet how often when amidst a storm do we see past its edges to what lies ahead? God showed me that He is right there, on His mountain top, whether rain or shine. He sees my storms, but He also sees my sunshine. And all He asks of me is to trust Him....that it's there waiting for me....when the storm passes by.