‘I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth.’ – Genesis 9.13
From Helen Machell:
Whilst out running recently it seemed somewhat grey, overcast with a few patches of blue sky and sun intertwined. For me this seemed like the perfect conditions to run in, except that I was not in the perfect condition to run. It had been a tough day, but with a little persuasion and my determination to complete 3 runs this week, out I went.
This particular run, though, was somewhat different. Usually I am constantly encouraging myself to keep going. With this run however, it seemed that whenever I changed direction there was a different motivation, I kept seeing rainbows. Well formed, vibrant rainbows. It seemed that each was more glaringly obvious than the last!
Every time I see a rainbow I am always reminded of God’s promise to Noah. When I saw the 2nd rainbow, I decided to think of another promise. I then said to God that each time I saw a new rainbow I would name out loud a new promise. I can’t say this was easy especially when I was at rainbow number 5 and somewhat out of breath (read almost dying!) but I kept on. This was my list:
1. God promised Noah that he wouldn’t flood the earth again.
2. He promised Abraham that he would have land, a people and blessing (I only allowed myself to have this as one!).
3. To never leave us or forsake us. – Hebrews 13.5
4. For he is good, His Love endures forever. – Psalm 136
5. The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him. – Nahum 1.7
What would be yours?
As I got home, I turned to look down my road (I was pleased I had made it back) and I noticed staring back at me the clearest double rainbow. I grinned at the rainbow and at God, thinking, ‘Very funny!’ I came up with 2 more.
1. Come all who are weary and I will give you rest. – Matthew 11.28
2. I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. – John 8.12
God’s promises are a great reminder to us all and we should take great delight in each one of them.
*Disclosure 1. I looked up the references when I got in!
*Disclosure 2. This shouldn’t have been that difficult really – apparently there are over 3000 in the Bible!!!!
St Patrick's Church Blog 
Thank you Helen for your blog. I found it really envigorating and uplifting. It’s so amazing that we can be encouraged and comforted by all God’s promises. I also find it no coincidence that the rainbow has become such a symbol of hope and gratitude during our world’s present crisis. God’s presence is in this situation too even if we don’t all realise it.
And well done for all the running! It made me feel very lazy as I read this blog lying in bed!
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Lovely Helen.xx
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