“Rain falls in every life.” Our Pastor said this during her sermon this morning. It was certainly a phrase I wanted to remember but at the time I wasn’t sure why.

After the service we loaded up our cars, gathered the youth group, adult volunteers and friends and headed out to serve the homeless.

I couldn’t help but question throughout the day, why it rains harder on some people than others. During our trip i spoke with the kids about how/why some people end up on the street. We discussed how some people make lifestyle choices that can easily result in homelessness. Other people struggle with mental health issues that make it difficult, if not impossible, to hold a job or maintain a home. I explained that some people simply lose control. There are people that find themselves dodging the raindrops and for awhile they are successful, but eventually the rain comes harder and harder and the individuals simply can’t stay dry. In time they find themselves struggling to stay afloat.

Is the difference how much rain falls on each person or how the water is handled once it falls?

Is it the difference of having family that will help us when a storm comes over the horizon? Is it the professional peers that can guide us like a lighthouse? Or is it the social service agencies that help us gather the supplies we need to stay afloat?

I really don’t know. I don’t know why a tornado goes through a neighborhood and only damages one house.

I do know I am grateful for the opportunity to serve people that are struggling. Most importantly I am grateful for the connections I make while serving others. The men and women I have met during these trips frequently warm my heart, make me smile and give me a reason to share my umbrella.