Rains Remind Me of Strength of Noah

Geetings, blogosphere!

It has been raining in the Boston area all summer, and it has brought to mind for me, again and again, the story of Noah, and his ark. Because the story is so well-known, and is usually one of the first taught, it actually loses some impact. Think about it, though: Noah was an amazing man.

The Bible has many stories of men (and women - just look at Mary) putting their lives, reputations, and others' lives on the line for God - Abraham, the Apostle Paul, Job, and firstly, now and always, our Savior, Christ. Noah has his own special story to live out - he had to literally build an ark in the face of family and friends, with not a cloud in the sky.

Imagine having a faith that is so focused and so pure that you take on a long-term project that, on it's human face, makes no sense. Taking out the tools, building the frame, having setbacks that may make you look ineffectual and silly...all in front of your community. The naked project. It is one thing to take a private journey or do a quick task for the Lord; not many people have to know about it. What Noah did was different. Could you build an ark in your backyard if the Lord told you to? I fear that my rational mind would take over and dissuade me, which blocks faith. How did Noah do it?

By Grace, I think. The Lord saw his pure heart and focused faith, and recognized a good man from the race He created and that He had had so much hope for, and bestowed the grace to finish the race. Noah gladdened the Lord's heart; here was what He had had in mind! In saving Noah, and the animals He loved and also created, He saved us all. And it wasn't to be the last time, as we know.

The rainbow and it's meaning are still special; I hope to see one soon. Because it is forever a promise from God - and it always means that the sun has come out. :-)

Make every minute count!