Rainy Monday

I have Mark Knopfler on Pandora. I have Al Mohler in print. I have a headache, and it is raining. Mondays are great.

On Monday, I can reflect on the previous Sunday, consider the ups and downs of the day, the church activities, the staff and the people, but mostly I reflect on my own soul. I can look ahead to the upcoming days, plan a few things, ponder a sermon or idea or six, and get the week moving. Sometimes Monday is extremely productive. Today, it is only in the way of getting to Tuesday.

In my life, and likely in yours, some days and weeks are better than other days and weeks. The last week has been as difficult as I have had in several years. Multiple issues, multiple conflicts, some of them my own, some that I am simply a spectator for, all of them emotionally challenging. Some minor illness, a tinge of continual physical pain. Some semi-significant financial decisions. Mother's Day and my wife's birthday coming up.

In the face of a rainy Monday, and all the piles of life that are surrounding me, and my own failures and victories, I am content. I have found a peace and joy that supercedes hardship. I am loved by the God of the Universe in spite of myself. I have a few constant and reliable friends that will stick with me, encourage me, forgive me when I am less than my best. I have a wife who is incredible in so many ways. I have two dollars in my pocket, I can eat today, I will sleep in my own bed, in my own house.

I am not discouraged on a rainy Monday. In fact I am reminded that God is Good, even when I am not. Rain is necessary and vital, it causes the grass and flowers and crops to thrive, and reminds us to enjoy the sunny days. Just as stress and challenge is necessary and vital, it refines us in the heart, causes us to consider our own motives and actions, and reminds us that there will be days and weeks that are less troublesome.

Let it rain all day.