Tending Joy for Friday, February 23

When I bring clouds over the earth and the bow is seen in the clouds, I will remember my covenant that is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh.

Genesis 9:14-15

Give: to provide relief from disasters

In conversation with Noah, God offers a spiritual superpower: a reason for Noah to hope, not fear, when he sees the storm clouds gathering again. Noah could easily dread darkening skies, but God’s promise enables him to trust instead of tremble. The bow that appears only when the clouds do will remind Noah and all earthly creatures of God’s sure covenant. God invites us to trust in the same promise as Noah, and God sustains us with the same joy that persists even in the midst of storms.

This trust in God’s provision means that rather than squirreling away our resources in anticipation of disaster, we can give generously from what we’ve been given. Today, consider giving to a disaster relief fund to support people in particular need following a storm.

Today’s photo prompt

What gives you hope even when storm clouds gather?