Derechos

Good morning, and welcome to our "New Word of the Day" day.

Don't worry; this won't be a regular occurrence.

Today is forecasted to be another gusty Spring day. I like to think of these days as God's way of assisting us in our ground-covered, leaf-blowing, post-winter cleanup.

I'm sure, meteorologically speaking, there is a greater reason and purpose for these blustery days, but I appreciate the help nonetheless.

As I watch the trees swaying and the smoke from my neighbor's chimney stack billowing due north, I can't help but think about all the winds of change we have been going through these last couple of years.

I'm not talking about breezy winds of change where seasons come and go - I love those moments and thrive dealing with new and exciting things. I get bored easily; what can I say?

What I'm talking about are those unexpected stormy gusts that come out of nowhere, knocking you over and making your face jowls flap in the wind.

Funny to watch on a video, but not so great to experience in real life.

If I'm being honest, it's been downright derechos-y for many of us.

Derechos are "intense, straight-line, fast-moving wind storms formed in high-pressure circumstances that sometimes cause significant damage."

That straight-line part stood out to me.

When faced with the storms of life, it sometimes feels like the pressure systems are aimed right at you as the hits keep coming.

I know many of you have had your share of intense, damage-producing, derecho-filled moments.

You may be walking in one right now (your hair still looks great, though, so at least there's that).

The good news is that, from what I can surmise from my speedy internet skimming, a derecho is pretty fast-moving.

In other words, this too shall pass.

You will get through this.

Soon, the light will break through, and you will feel the sun on your face and God's arms holding you close.

Stillness

Calm

Peace

New beginnings

Sun rays beaming through the clouds

Birds chirping, enjoying their day flying in the gentle breezes

Green grass peeking up from the frozen ground

Bulbs bursting life from underneath their covers

So, be encouraged today, my friend.

God is the ultimate storm chaser, and He will protect and help you withstand these winds and come out the other side stronger and braver, albeit slightly disheveled.

And when the derecho storms pass, you can stand with God and declare:

I am a derecho defeater!

I am a storm survivor!

And then, it will be time for some peace-loving, calm, cool, and collected chillaxing,

Meet me on the patio for some coffee, won't you?

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Isaiah 41:10

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Philippians 4: 6-7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.