As winter storms continue to ravage the land the populace looks to meteorologists for pending information as to when “the next big one” will hit. An imminent storm causes people to scurry to the grocery store, the gas station, and the RedBox to arm themselves for the onslaught ahead. Children celebrate early dismissals, two hour delays, and snow days while adults are trying to figure out child care, transportation, and carpooling while school is out.
Two days running on the morning commute I observed a crimson stained sky to the East. Whenever I take note of this phenomenon I recall a ditty from my childhood “Red sky morning, sailors take warning. Red sky night, sailors delight.” You may remember a variation of this adage. This saying even came up with a colleague later in the day as we discussed the meteorological report. Does this saying carry truth? Where did it come from?
Scientific American has a short, informative article about the origin of this saying and states that there is some validity to it depending on geographical location and specific west to east weather patterns. As I ponder I realize there actually are numerous devices in everyday life that provide “warnings”. A fuel gauge on the car shows when gas is low and the tank needs refilling. A speedometer displays if a driver is exceeding the speed limit which may lead to a speeding ticket. A buzzer on the stove warns that dinner may burn if not checked. There are limitless contraptions that provide warnings in everyday life.
So herein are some questions. What warning signals are there in our personal lives? What factors in our lives point to “the next big one?” How can we “predict” storms that will arise in our lives? How can we prepare for them? Occasionally, simply becoming aware of possible complications or obstacles keeps us from being blindsided when they arise. At other times we can prepare for them – like investing for a child’s college education knowing it will be a great expense when the time arrives, or, perhaps saving up to buy a newer car as the older one is beginning to rust and frequently break down. Sometimes, no amount of preparation and warning can prepare us to overcome deep loss and sorrow. During challenging times I implore you to see the obstacles as opportunities for growth in grace and greatness. May you each have endurance and stamina to weather the storms of life as they come. May you each be shown compassion and mercy and have someone to help shoulder the load you carry on your journey. I wish you peace! I wish you hope in the troubled times!