An autumn storm is raging outside. Everything is thrown into disarray, leaves torn from the branches. Again and again a strong gust comes. Then, suddenly, there is almost no wind again. I watch the wind from the window. Or, actually, the plants that are shaken back and forth. Because you can't see the wind.
A blackbird sits at the very top of the tree and holds its beak defiantly in the wind. Maybe it even enjoys it.
In the Bible, the wind is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. The wind blows where it wants, it says. No one knows where it comes from and where it is going. But you can see its effects.
The wind moves things. It tears things away that are only loosely attached. Stirs up what is lying around. But it also lifts up. And can also be dangerous.
You can fly a kite in the wind. Boats can sail with it. Surfers have fun. You can generate energy. And dry laundry. Wind mixes cold and warm air and brings rain. Without wind, the weather would stand still. The wind drives the clouds forward. It brings change.
It's good that there's wind. Even if it is unpredictable and sometimes dangerous.
Where is God's wind blowing in my life? Do I allow him to blow vigorously, or do I hide from it? Blow away, Holy Spirit, what has or should have no weight in my life! Like plastic bags that are driven away. Blow and clean up vigorously so there´s freshness and clarity.
But it's a good thing that God doesn't usually blow into our lives like a hurricane. He´s more like a gentle whisper. Just as Elijah was allowed to see him on that mountain.
God knows which wind force is the right one right now to work in our lives. How much headwind we need to finally get going and spread our wings. Or whether it is a gentle breeze that tenderly caresses our cheeks and comforts us.
I like wind.
You know how the wind blows this way and that. You hear a rustling through the trees, but you have no idea where it comes from or where it´s headed next. That´s the way it is with everyone `born from above` by the wind of God, the Spirit of God.
John 3:8 (MB)