STAY CONNECTED

In the middle of a storm, it's important to stay connected. I've heard stories of blizzards on the farm, when farmers would tie a rope from the house to the barn, so that they wouldn't get lost or disoriented and wind up stuck out in the cold and snow. Nowadays, if someone should have to venture out on the road in a storm, they can take along a cell phone and keep people on each end of their journey informed as to their progress. Either way, staying connected is not only a good idea, it can save a person's life.

Likewise, as you and I encounter difficult times in life, it's also important for us to stay connected--to people we know and love, to groups and/or practices that keep us anchored, and, of course, to God. In times of sickness, mourning, marital or financial trouble, staying connected through coffee-chats, phone calls, e-mails, worship, prayer and devotional reading can help people see their way through the storm and back home to safe ground.

We're in the midst of quite a storm right now. Economic uncertainty, fighting in two countries, and competing moral values in society can leave us wondering where we're going, or at least, when we're going to "get there."

God knows and can guide us along our way. The Bible is full of stories of people who have weathered life's storms. Others close to us may have similar experiences and can offer wisdom and encouragement. Staying connected with any and all of these can help us to keep from getting lost in the present storm--and any future ones as well.

Life will always bring us storms. Winter snows give way to spring downpours and summer's tornados. Whatever the season, then, it's always important to stay connected.

Blessings,
John