I love a thunderstorm. And I love David’s description of God’s thunderstorms—striking, breaking, shaking, twisting, stripping leaves from branches. But I’m glad I’m not a thunderstorm.
Weather experts sometimes predict stray thunderstorms or isolated thunderstorms or scattered thunderstorms in the area. Sometimes thunderstorms are violent or damaging or severe.
I know full well that I would be a thunderstorm apart from the grace of God. I would be straying from him, but instead I have a secure home with him. I would be isolated from those I love, but instead I am enriched by many around me. My life would be scattered in meaningless pieces, but instead I am whole.
Why? Because God in his grace found me when I was straying, embraced me when I was isolated, and made me whole when I was hopelessly scattered in my thoughts, words, and deeds. I’m glad I am no longer a thunderstorm!
To be sure, God is the majestic God of powerful thunderstorms. “The God of glory thunders, the LORD thunders over the mighty waters.” But the final word of this psalm is as potent as the storm: “The Lord blesses his people with peace.” Thundering power; peaceful grace.
God of abounding grace, we pray today for those who are straying from you, isolated from others or scattered in their thoughts, words, and deeds. Bless them with your peace. Through Jesus Christ, Amen.
About the author — Dale Vander Veen
Dale Vander Veen is a retired Christian Reformed pastor who with his wife, Edith, has ministered in California, Washington, and Michigan. They have three married children and six grandchildren. He currently writes a daily e-mail series of devotions.
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