Following a recent lunch discussion, I decided to research the comment
that a bull shark attack had once occurred in Lake Michigan. It seemed like
such an impossible thought that we all scoffed at the idea of sharks in a
freshwater lake so far inland. I found one online site that claimed a bull
shark attack did occur in Lake Michigan in 1955, but it was never verified. A
shark attack in Lake Michigan? If the story were true, it would definitely be a
rare occurrence.
Wouldn’t it be great if hard times were like Lake Michigan bull shark
attacks—rare or even untrue? But they aren’t. Hardships and difficulties are
common. It’s just that when they happen to us, we think they shouldn’t.
Perhaps that is why the apostle Peter, writing to first-century
followers of Christ going through tough times, said, “Beloved, do not think it
strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange
thing happened to you” (1 Peter 4:12). These trials are not abnormal—and once we get
past our surprise, we can turn to the Father who ministers deeply to our hearts
and in our lives. He has a love that never fails. And in our world filled with
trials, that kind of love is desperately needed.
By the sunshine of His love,
God paints on our clouds the rainbow of His grace. (RBC)
