From Kara: Ah...Midwestern T-storms. As a child of the NW I though myself to be well versed in various forms of rain and encounters with storm clouds. Not so. I'm actually a wee babe when it comes to understandings such as sudden Kansas rain fall.
It was an overcast afternoon yesterday (but still 82 degrees...sticky). I decided to go for a run as I have committed myself not only to try and expand my spiritual disciplines but also my physical disciplines (please pray for me). My mother-in-law Fran and I both looked outside at the gloomy sky. We talked about how it was nice to run with a light rain to keep you cool. And indeed it is.
As I set out on my way I noticed the sky looked particularly dark, a little more so than it did when I left. No matter, continue on, Self! Some light rain drops hit my head. Refreshing. All of a sudden, though, the little scattered drops were transformed into a downfall of blinding sheets of water. I was almost giddy. How fun! Like running in a shower...
My giddiness soon turned into slight concern. I heard the low and progressively louder rumbles of thunder and a few flashes of lightning. Then I was a little more concerned. This is where my vast inexperience with all things Midwestern came in. What is the likelihood I would be struck my lightning? If I'm the tallest object out in the open would that increase my chances? I'm around all these trees, is that safe? I decided to run back home.
As these thoughts were hopping around in my brain, cars began to pull over to the side of the road as the sheets of water made visibility nearly impossible. More thunder. And more lightning. I calculated where I was and still had a good 5 blocks to go. Water poured on top of me and my shoes made a lovely squishing sound as I ran through small rivers on the side of the road. The people who were pulled over must have thought I was crazy. I felt crazy.
As I turned the bend and saw the house I let out a little "whoo-hoo!" I made it! But then I looked down the street and saw the tail lights to Fran's car ahead. She was out looking for me! I didn't know if she saw me, so I ran back to the house and waited a bit and then called her to let her know I was safe...and drenched.
And now a spiritual application with all this (you knew it was coming). I thought back when I turned the corner and saw Fran's car. I didn't mention it before but when I saw she had gone out to find me I got a little teary. She was out looking for me because she was concerned! She cared about me enough to venture out in a torrential downpour to make sure I was okay! I thought about the Shepherd and the one lost sheep from the 99. The lengths our Father goes to seek us out. It's a beautiful thing.
So it turned out to be a pretty decent run. A little physical exercise and a spiritual truth included. But most of all, I was reminded of the true love our Father has for us and the lengths he will go to re-claim us to himself. And also reminded of what an amazing mother-in-law I have. A true servant through and through. Thanks Fran, I love you.
Aww, Kara. I could almost hear you saying this. You write just as you speak. Love it. Like a little piece of Kara here with me.
ReplyDeleteGood job on the jog, by the way! Once again, we are fellow rowers. I will pray with you about your exercise endeavors as I trudge through mine. Blessings dear friend, let's talk soon.