Mourning into Dancing

Wind and rain persist, causing much suffering due to flooding, power outages, automobile accidents and felled trees. Again, our routines are interrupted, our stress increases as we feel the muscles of our necks tighten and our heads pound. St. Paul tells us to "Rejoice in the Lord always!" (Phil 4:4). Always, even now? Does he know what he's talking about? Fortunately for us, he does. He has absorbed a theme prevalent in the Psalms and in the Prophets, and in the history of Israel and passes it on succintly to us. The theme of rescue is a familiar one:
"I will praise you, Lord, you have rescued me
and have not let my enemies rejoice over me.

O Lord, I cried to you for help
and you, my God have healed me.

The Lord listened and had pity.
The Lord came to my help.
For me you have changed my mourning into dancing.

So my soul sings psalms to you unceasingly.
O Lord my God. I will thank you forever." (Ps 30: 1-2, 10-11).

May the rain be a reminder that God wipes away our tears when our faith in him remains strong during discomfort and frustration, and that indeed, he alone can turn "mourning into dancing." Let us face our day with confidence and rejoicing.
Bro. Rene