March is busy blowing in like a lion. As usual, the wind has been showing out since at least mid-February, and if you’re like me, you’ll soon be ready for the exiting-like-a-lamb stage.
But we can learn things from this phenomenon of nature.
As the March gusts sweep through the land, heralding the transition from winter to spring, they bring with them a powerful reminder of life’s unpredictable temperament. The wind, with its invisible force, can be both invigorating and unsettling.
Indeed, our journey through life is often akin to navigating the blustery winds of uncertainty and trials. It’s in these moments that we turn to our spiritual compass, trusting that a higher power will guide us through the storms.
Multiple biblical narratives provide solace with stories that reveal the tumultuous nature of our time here on Earth.
In the gospels of Matthew and Mark, there’s the poignant account of Jesus’ calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee. The disciples, terrified by the raging tempest, awoke Jesus from His slumber. With a simple command, “Peace, be still,” Jesus subdued the roaring waves and restored tranquility. This story is a timeless metaphor for the storms in our lives – a reminder that divine intervention can bring serenity even in the most turbulent circumstances.
Similarly, the Apostle Paul’s harrowing experience at sea, as described in the book of Acts, serves as a testament to the enduring power of faith. In a ship battered by ferocious wind and waves, Paul clung to hope while his companions lost theirs. In the darkest hour, an angel appeared to Paul, assuring him of their safety and survival.
Paul then encouraged his fellow shipmates, saying, “Keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me” (Acts 27:25). This narrative echoes the assurance that, even in the midst of life’s tumults, a heavenly plan is unfolding that will steer us to safety.
Then there’s the tale of Jonah, swallowed by a great fish after attempting to escape divine instructions. This is poignant reminder of the consequences of resisting God’s guidance. The storm that preceded Jonah’s aquatic adventure highlights the chaos that may ensue when we stray from our spiritual path. Yet, even in the belly of the fish, Jonah found redemption and a second chance – a testament to the ever-present opportunity for renewal and transformation.
Life’s storms are inevitable. They come in various forms, challenging our resilience and testing our faith. However, the promise of divine direction is our anchor in these turbulent winds and waters. It’s a reassurance that, like a skilled captain at the helm, God navigates us through the tumult, ensuring we emerge stronger on the other side. He does not promise us a smooth and easy journey, but he promises to be with us and lead us through the whirlwinds we encounter.
Consider the kite, soaring high in the sky. A kite needs the wind to ascend, just as we need the challenges in life to rise above our circumstances. The string that holds the kite can be likened to the godly connection that keeps us grounded. The gales of adversity may pull at us, but the kite, even with tugging, if it remains attached to the string, will suffer no ills. In fact, it becomes a thing of beauty to behold.
So, as we face the March winds and the storms that life may bring, let us hold onto the assurance that divine guidance is our constant companion. Like a kite dancing in the air, we can find beauty and purpose in the journey, confident that the storms are not the end, but a passage to a brighter, more resilient version of ourselves.
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Sallie Rose Hollis lives in Ruston and retired from Louisiana Tech as an associate professor of journalism and the assistant director of the News Bureau. She can be contacted at sallierose@mail.com.
