When Storm Clouds Gather

There is the threat of a storm on the horizon, foreboding signs that point to unwelcome changes. There are many who are warning that this September will bring with it fearful changes in the economy as well as our security.  How should people who have put their trust in the unfailing, faithful love of God respond to an ominous future?

"These are My appointed times," God spoke of seven appointed times in the book of Leviticus the last one will take place this year in September, it is The Festival of Booths.  This is a time when God invites His people celebrate the truth God provides for those who put their trust in Him.

For seven days those who celebrate the Festival of Booths will live in temporary dwellings to commemorate the sheltering of the Israelites in the wilderness. During this time God also invites His people to rejoice as they remember how He not only lead them through the wilderness but also provided everything they needed.  Every morning He provided bread from Heaven and when they were thirsty He provided water from the rock. Neither thier shoes nor their clothes wore out. God has not changed and even though we face uncertain times one thing has not changed God offers us shelter beneath His faithful wing of protection.

This was a harvest celebration and on the last day of the festival they would have a water-drawing ceremony. In Egypt the Nile was the source of water but in the Promised Land they were dependant on rain from the heavens.  They prayed for rain but they didn't beg instead they praised God for His faithfulness; they praised Him for His unfailing love. This was a time of great joy.

They were not only thanking God for providing literal water they were looking forward to the days of messianic redemption when the waters of the Holy Spirit would be poured out. How did Jesus respond to this feast?  "Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, 'If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, "From his innermost being will flow rivers of living waters. '""(John 7:37-38)

So how should Christians respond to uncertain times?  I find the answer in Romans 15:13 "Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." This is the verse I'm holding onto as I await the coming of September.