“Observe my sabbaths and have reverence for my sanctuary. I am the Lord. If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commands, I will send you rain in its season, and the ground will yield its crops and the trees their fruit!  

Leviticus 26:2-4 (NIV)

My husband and I were preparing to take an epic road trip (2+ weeks) up the east coast and across to Niagara Falls before heading south back home. Knowing the time frame and the distance, I felt we needed to be prepared for all types of weather – hot/cold/rain/sun (but no snow – it’s August!) I became insistent that we invest in good rain jackets – especially for the Niagara Falls portion of the trip. 

When we shopped for jackets, I learned quickly that there are varying degrees of protection from the elements – who knew? I stood in the store perplexed. Which is better, rain resistant or rain repellent? To make the final decision, I did what I always do. I based my choice on the color of the jacket (because pretty matters, right?). The sky blue one was cute and functional. Certainly, this must be the one with the best protection too. Rain repellent.

As it turns out we had the opportunity to use our new rain gear a few times on the trip. We never let the weather impede our plans or derail our fun. The first time, we put on our jackets and went out walking in Bar Harbor in the morning drizzle. I was happy and dry, ever so proud of my stylish jacket. 

Then it rained harder and harder. 

Ultimately, I began to feel the water seeping in through the seams. Rain repellent was not what I imagined. However, I didn’t let that dampen my spirits. I still wasn’t as wet as I could’ve been! The same proved true on a rainy day in Vermont and at the foot of Niagara Falls. We were so thankful we planned for the rain.

Fast forward to the return home. There was 90+ degree weather and not a drop of rain for 3 weeks. With no rain in sight, I paused and considered this: Why are we so welcoming of the sunshine and so fretful of the rainfall? We spend so much effort, go to such extremes, to not get wet, hoping our plans aren’t ruined by the rain when that rain is truly a gift. 

In Leviticus, we are told the rain comes as a reward for our obedience. Yet, we often repel or resist it. Much like the dry ground after all that 90-degree weather and no rain – the earth refused to soak it in until completely and repeatedly saturated. 

Like me at Niagara Falls – I purchased everything I could to stay dry (the water shoes, quick dry pants, rain repellent jacket with a hood). It wasn’t until we were on the boat under the spray from the falls, enveloped by the mist, feeling the pelting water that I decided to just soak it in. Soak in the awesome experience. The majesty, beauty, and power of that wonder. I did truly soak it in. I even insisted my husband take a picture with my hood off, hair drenched!

In our lives there will be rain – literally and figuratively. The Bible tells us in Matthew 5:45, “… He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends the rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” So, when that happens, when you are pelted with negative experiences, hard decisions, and difficult tasks, remember to soak it in.

Soak in the moments. Feel the awesome power of God. Remember the reward.