I have placed my rainbow in the clouds. It is the sign of my covenant with you and with all the earth. Genesis 9:13 NLT
The orange-red sun was melting into the water as the easterly wind increased over the Gulf of Mexico. I was nervous about sailing overnight from the sheltered islands of the Dry Tortugas to mainland Florida. The forecast of squalls worsened a long moonless night at sea.
Our family Christmas cruise to this island paradise of white beaches fringed with swaying palms was coming to an end. New to deepwater sailing, I dreaded the night sail through eerie darkness.
Leaving Loggerhead Key lighthouse astern, we set sails in a stiffening breeze and building seas, salty spray flying as the bow knifed through each wave. My anxiety grew as I steadied myself in the galley to heat up the traditional beef stew for a sunset supper.
The Lord’s encouraging words suddenly sang out: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you” (Isaiah 43”2) NIV.
Climbing up to the cockpit with steaming bowls of stew, I looked forward and lifted a prayer of thanks. The fiery sun was sliding into the watery horizon. As the boat’s bow knifed through cresting waves, the spray refracted the sunlight, sending up beautiful rainbows. Walking up on deck, I let each small rainbow renew my courage and give comfort for the night’s sail.
I remembered God’s promise to Noah after the great flood—setting His rainbow in the clouds as a covenant between them (Genesis 9:13). My uneasiness vanished as I felt God’s company with us.
That long-ago cruise taught me to look for God’s messages in troubled waters and thank Him for his presence in the moment. He always reassures me of his watchfulness.
God of our troubled waters,
Open our spiritual eyes to Your messages of safekeeping in unsettled seasons, unique ways you remind us of Your watchful companionship. You are with us in our tempestuous seas and dark nights. Exchange our worries for worship, burdens for blessings, and anxieties for awe. Amen!
Sara Lewis (MD)
