For some, storms that pop up unexpectedly can cause fear, while for others, it can create a sense of awe. Sometimes how we respond to a storm is a matter of perspective; how storms have uprooted our lives in the past, how they change our present plans, or how they can impact the outcome of our future.  

Last summer we were standing on the Lake Michigan shoreline waiting with anticipation to take in what we hoped would be a spectacular sunset, instead, we were met with a pop up storm. The gentle surf lapping up on the sandy beach said, peace, but the story unfolding on the horizon told a different narrative. The surreal moment had some people running to their vehicles for cover, others stood in awe, and delighted in the splendor unfolding before their eyes. Can you guess which category I fell into? 

I took in the sights and sounds with all of my senses. I did not want to miss a single moment. The cloud formations appeared like thunderous waves crashing through the azure sky. Lightening skipped across the firmament with abandon, peeking out behind the thick masses like twirling lassos trying to latch on to a wild stallion and tame it into submission. The mist of the incoming rain swirled through the air and danced across my skin. It felt as if I was standing in another dimension of time and space. I can sincerely say I experienced pure joy standing in the midst of the storm. 

One could equate this current epidemic and it’s impact on our daily life to a storm. In a certain sense we just entered into a new year, and were standing on the shoreline waiting to see how 2020 was going to unfold before our eyes. We may have had ideas of how the year was going to play out, what colors we would see streak across the sky for us to enjoy, but then. But then this storm, this trial came our way, and we were all asked to make changes. For some, so many changes! At times, it can feel overwhelming. It can be difficult to watch this perfect storm, and say, “wow, this makes me feel joy”. 

In the book of James, Paul encourages us to consider it pure joy when we face trials of many kinds, because through the testing of your faith you will grow in perseverance. Through perseverance, or steadfastness, you will mature. Become complete. So you will lack nothing. 

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

James 1:2-4 (NIV)

Can you imagine that!?! How preposterous. It goes against the grain. It does not come natural to experience, or consider trials as pure joy, because of the growth it will bring us. 

I have said this before, but what a shame it would be to waste the experience we have been given to challenge ourselves. For some, this time has caused a big pause in life. What are you learning in the pause, in taking shelter from the storm? For others, you have been asked to stand out on the shore as the storm crashes in around you. What lessons have you learned from facing the storm head on? 

May we learn important lessons through the stretching, maturing, growing of our faith during this time. May we experience completeness in trusting God’s plan for us. He sees us. He is present. And maybe, just maybe, we will consider it pure joy, because we were able to discover beauty in the storm.