DAILY?READINGS: Numbers 4; Proverbs 1; Mark 14:1-26
Thy mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; and Thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds. Psalm 36:5
When it comes to clouds, we generally like fleecy white masses on a blue background, rather than dark ominous thunderclouds. Yet, all are a part of nature and of our lives. Just as clouds give character to the sky, so clouds of trial tend to enrich our character. An Arab proverb says that all sunshine makes a desert. We need clouds to bring rain for growth and fruitfulness and help mold and shape us into Christ’s image. Then at sunset God, with clouds, paints a masterpiece for our enjoyment. It causes us to praise our Creator who uses both cloud and sunshine for our good. —E. Dyck
Ye fearful saints fresh courage take, the clouds ye so much dread;
Are filled with mercy and will break, in blessing on your head.
—William Cowper