Some went out on the sea in ships; they were merchants on the mighty waters. They saw the works of the LORD, his wonderful deeds in the deep. For he spoke and stirred up a tempest that lifted high the waves.
They mounted up to the heavens and went down to the depths; in their peril their courage melted away … Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.
They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven. Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind. – Psalm 107: 23-31
Bob Beck/Robert’s Ramblings
As a child I lived just outside of Newport, Ore. on the Pacific Coast. During a storm I loved to stand on the bluffs above the ocean, and I hollered with the shouts of the wind and waves. For me it was exciting and uplifting to witness the might of God’s creation. I have only been out on a ship once during a storm, and learned my lesson. The captain invited the passengers to the bridge when the worst of the storm was over. The bow of the ship still rose to the sky, and I could see none of the ocean; then the bow would plunge and waves broke over the ship. It was still exciting, but a bit frightening; but for the ship’s crew, a time to smile and think of celebrating.
We have been under the storm caused by COVID-19 for over a year now, and I look forward to a time when we might celebrate.
Earlier this week my wife and I got our first COVID-19 vaccination, and we thought of celebrating. I don’t feel like celebrating just yet.
I cannot hug my grandchildren yet. I cannot go comfortably out among friends, attend worship service, or go out for dinner comfortably just yet. I can celebrate the little things now, because we can see the sun shine on the edges of the clouds of the end of this storm. Oh, I do want to celebrate, but not just yet, let us all wait for the rainbow at the end of this storm.
I am wishing that you all might have reason to celebrate soon.
Bob Beck is VFW Post #4039 district commander and a lay leader at his church.
