Lessons Learned from Sickness Part 42: Storm
By Pastor Ronny Luces
We have experienced many storms in our lives. Not only storms that contain torrential rains and strong winds but storms of life like sickness, death, accidents, and other unfortunate incidents, as well.
We can’t forget Typhoon Yolanda, the strongest typhoon to unleash its furious damage in our country in November 2013.
While writing this lesson, my ears are glued to the radio for news about the landfall of Chedeng, which is expected to hit several provinces in Northern Luzon anytime soon.
When I think of storms, I immediately remember one of Sir Acosta’s favorite illustrations (Pastor Rudy Acosta) about a storm.
Ironically, the virtue that the pastor wanted to emphasize using the picture of a storm is PEACE. For those who have not heard about that illustration, here is the gist of the story.
A painting contest was held with the overall theme of “Peace.” Most entries contain images of a tranquil sea, a calm beach, stationary objects, a mountain view, and pictures of the skies with birds flying contentedly.
But the single entry that got the judges’ nod is a picture of a storm in full swing.
How can that be? How can a storm represent peace?
So many people protested the decision of the judges.
The judges invited the protesters to look closely at the picture to appease them.
In the midst of swirling rain and strong winds, there is a tree branch with a nest on it. Inside the nest, a mother bird sat contentedly, oblivious to what was happening around her.
The judges ruled that peace in this context is not the absence of chaos but contentment and joy amid trying situations.
Perhaps that’s what Christ emphasized in his words found in John 16:33,
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble, but be of good courage, I have overcome the world.”
Are you under attack by many storms of life right now?
Take heart. With Christ in your vessel, you can smile at the storm.
Peace be with you!
Posted on FB: Saturday, 4 April 2015 at 6:35 PM
About the Author
Rev. Ronny Luces was the Minister for Administration and Community Service of the Jaro Evangelical Church (JEC), Iloilo City, Philipines. He and his wife, Martha have been with JEC’s ministry since 1994.
Pastor Ronny graduated from Central Philippine University College of Theology in 1985 and was pastor of several Baptist churches.
In January 2015, after tests and two long hospital confinements, Pastor Ronny got the word he had lung cancer. He underwent chemotherapy.
Praying for healing and going through all the medical processes, Pastor Ronny wrote his reflections “Lessons Learned from My Sickness.” In July 2015, he passed away.
May Pastor Ronny’s series of reflections and meditations strengthen your hope and faith as you go through your own life’s battles.
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