Delays, delays!

A recent 4 1/2–hour flight from Austin, TX to Raleigh, NC morphed into nearly 12 hours.

The problem?

Severe thunderstorms rocked the South and interfered with dozens of flights. Exhausted travelers and flight crews worked to maintain cheerful attitudes (Um, a handful of flyers gave up trying).

Upon takeoff, the flight was bumpy and the seat belt signs remained engaged. I tried not to worry as volatile air currents seemed to have their way with our aircraft.

(The whole flying thing seems illogical to me anyway. I mean, really. Shooting through the air in a metal tube? Mercy.)

But then something amazing happened. 

Our plane reached an altitude above the storm clouds just as the sun began it’s final descent for the day.

I’d never seen anything quite like it.

Enthralled passengers grabbed cellphones to capture the moment and for several minutes, a plane full of strangers came together over shared awe.

Below the clouds, storms wreaked havoc.

Above the clouds, creation exploded in joy.

What a picture of our life journeys!

Battered by storms, surrounded by chaos, we lose sight of what God could possibly be doing.

Why is this happening? Is there purpose in my suffering? Will this storm ever end?

We can’t see that just above the storm, light is streaming. God-filled beauty waits expectantly to break through our hurts and reflect the wonder of our Creator.

Romans 8:28 promises, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

And 1 Chronicles 29:11-12 reminds us of our God’s magnificence and strength. Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.

When we can’t see past the storm clouds, our God is in control.

When circumstances make no sense whatsoever, our God is in control.

When we are weak and helpless and afraid of the dark, our God is in control.

His purposes will prevail. His heart will provide. We can trust Him, for He is Faithful and True.

 

Are storm clouds obscuring our vision? Let’s remember the One working all for our good!

Have a blessed week!

Joyfully,

Leigh Ann 🙂