Disappointment or desperation

The weather has been extreme this week.  Suffice to say, most of us have been aware of some shifts of plans or hopes.  I have been aware of the difference between being disappointed and being desperate.  There are many people who have been disappointed because the weather is too hot or too dry.  Perhaps the rain came at the wrong moment (no fireworks, folks.... severe thunder storm ahead).  With disappointment, though, we can regroup and implement plan B -- which can be almost as good as the "A" plan as long as we don't dwell on the disappointment. 

But then there is the point of desperation -- Trees crash, causing loss of property and sometimes life itself.  People are suffering in the heat.   With prolonged power outages in many regions, perishable food is ruined, drinking water becomes unsafe, and there is no readily accessible plan B.  There is nothing to do but wait.  Adapt.  Hope. Trust.  Do anything possible to survive, and then pray for safety and sanity. 

Perhaps you have heard the pleas from the desperate.  Have you found a way to hold them in prayer or offer some kind of hope through word or deed?

Perhaps you have heard the groans of the disappointed.  Have you served as a voice that invites plan B?  Or have you spoken words of gratitude that it is disappointment (rather than desperation) that has entered our life?

One of our responsibilities as disciples is to nurture an attitude of gratitude.  We are to walk with gentleness, generosity and patience. 

So.... how have you been this week?  How has the weather been a factor in how you are as you are doing whatever you are doing?