Sunrise, Sunset

I've heard that sunsets at Presque Isle are a wonder to behold. We've only lived nearby for 38 years, I guess it was time to see for ourselves. And yes, it is a beautiful, restful, inspiring thing to watch the sun go down over the waters of Lake Erie.

 

This picture was from a few weeks ago, Labor Day evening. Tom and I, and a good friend of ours picnicked on Subway sandwiches, strolled the beach, and then parked ourselves on a bench to watch the sky turn all shades of pink, orange, and purple, as the golden sun slowly set. The breeze was damp and cool. The sand still held a hint of warmth. A group of young people splashed in the waves -- laughing, squealing, dunking each other. Pictures can't do it justice and a video would be like watching someone else's home movies. But it was fun, and perhaps we should take it in more often.

 

And then the show was over. The sun called it a day -- at least for our part of the world. Somewhere else the sun was rising, ushering in a brand new day. Sunrise. Sunset.

That reminds me. During communion this morning, our pianist tickled my ears and heart with "The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow." She always has a connection between the church calendar day, or a particular current event and the tune she chooses to play. As I took communion I pondered...why this song?

Maybe because the Scripture was about the lost sheep and the lost coin. In Sunday School class we discussed losses and being lost. There were tears as stories were shared, wonder at how God met individuals in times of need and devastating loss, hope in hearing how a heavenly Father drew near bringing comfort and peace.

A loss is sad and being lost is scary.

Just thinkin' about tomorrow clears away the cobwebs, and the sorrow 

Finding something gone missing, or being found yourself is reason to rejoice.

I just stick out my chin and grin and say... 

But -- perhaps she chose it as her prayer for the people of Boulder, Colorado, where rain has brought flooding and havoc. Dear God, let the sun come out for people ravaged by rain. Help them hold on until the sun comes out again.

The sun 'll come out tomorrow, bet your bottom dollar that tomorrow, there'll be sun. 

Every tomorrow won't be cloudy. Keep watching the sunsets, knowing that the sunrise will come tomorrow, and some of those tomorrows will be beautifully sunny. Pray for those who are having cloudy days. Pray for those who can't see the sunshine. Pray that the Son of God will shine on them.

In peace, in peace, let us pray to the Lord.

Lord have mercy,

Christ have mercy,

Lord have mercy.

Help, save and defend us, O God.

Amen.