When the Storm Rolls In
By Jimmie Aaron Kepler

Years ago, back when my legs were still short enough to dangle off the edge of the porch swing and the world still held so many mysteries, I remember one night that’s stayed with me all these years. I was five, maybe six, and we were living out in Glendale, Arizona. It was monsoon season, but I didn’t know what that meant yet.

You see, rain was rare in the desert. Most days were all sun and dust, blue skies and cactus shadows. So when the sky turned dark that afternoon and the wind picked up, I didn’t know what was happening. Then came the storm. It was fast, wild, and loud. Rain hammered the rooftop like it had something to prove. Lightning cracked across the sky like a whip, and thunder followed so close it shook the walls. I thought the world might be ending.

Terrified, I ran to the front porch where Daddy sat in his chair, watching the weather. Without a word, I crawled into his lap, trembling like a wet pup. He set his paper aside, wrapped his big arms around me, and whispered, “I’m right here, Jim. You’re safe. I’m protecting you.” I remember my little brother quickly joining me in dad’s lap.

And just like that, I believed him. The storm still roared outside, but the fear inside me settled. My daddy was near. That made all the difference.

That memory comes rushing back every time I read Psalm 27:1:

“The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” 

What comfort, what strength in those words.

Life throws its share of storms at us, some loud and obvious, others quiet and slow-burning. A troubling diagnosis, a tough goodbye, a long season of waiting. Whatever your storm looks like today, remember this: God hasn’t gone anywhere.

Just like my father in that Arizona monsoon, our Heavenly Father wraps us up and whispers, “I’ve got you.” He’s the light when things get dark. The shelter when the winds howl. The stronghold that doesn’t budge.

So take heart. Whether your sky is clear or stormy, you’re not alone. Crawl into His arms and rest easy. He’s right there.

Peace and Grace,
Jimmie