Rain, Rest and a Covering…

It’s one of those days when the sky is grey and heavy. It holds so much, and you know it will take all day to empty out. There’s the steady rhythm of raindrops falling on the skylight and it keeps time with the blackberry branches tapping against the fence. A symphony of  Spring.

It’s a rain-filled day, and I’m content. Unlike the months before this, I’m not anxious or worried. I don’t slip down in the dark of night to check the kitchen counters for dripping, or hold my breath when a storm arrives with unexpected fury.

Because they came.

The roofers.

They descended on the house, hammers pounding, nails flying and when it was all finished, our house was covered. No more leaking or damage. It can storm, opened skies and lashing wind or settle into hot, humid, sun-filled summer… we’re good. We’ve called them once already, to check the skylights. Not because of leaks, but because we were worried, we thought maybe it should have been done differently, but that wasn’t true. So now we’re back to trusting that they’ve done it right. And while the raindrops line up in beautiful rows along my clothesline, I think about  the One who covers our lives and how often I forget.

In all of my anxiety, and aching worry, the check and re-check in the order of life, trying to make it all ok… I sometimes forget I can set it all down, let it all go,

Because He came.

Jesus.

And when He descended there were pounding hammers, piercing nails, a cross and when it was finished, we were covered. No more guilt or shame, no condemnation. No lists or fumbling in the dark trying to make it right. It was all done, with more extravagant, unending love than we can ever begin to imagine! And whatever comes, no matter how great the fury, or how hot it gets… He is good, always. We can trust His life and the work  He’s done. And when we doubt and wonder, the truth is this…

He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armour and protection. (Psalm 91:4)

The rain dripping from the eaves, it makes me smile. I breathe in thanksgiving for covering and grace, and exhale sweet joy for the rest that I find in the covering of His wings.