Ask the LORD for rain in the springtime;
it is the LORD who makes the storm clouds.
He gives showers of rain to men,
and plants of the field to everyone.
-Zechariah 10:1

Today, is the first day of spring. Aside from the obvious natural beauty to be seen and the environmental changes that take place around us, springtime, for many, is a time of emotional, mental and spiritual renewal.

People clean their dwellings and venture out into a world that has exploded into color and majesty. And what of our minds? What of our thought life? Sometimes, we can forget that we've been holed up, in our own minds, for the winter; allowing the air to stagnate and the dust to settle. What we need is rain...Springtime rain. The kind of rain that causes good things to grow and that sends clean water to flow across the landscape of internal blight.

Many times, God will send storm clouds to produce that rain. Sometimes, those storms can be tough to get through. And even though the storm can cause damage and pain, the water, itself, will always end up where it is supposed to be. And once the winds subside and the clouds clear, the thankful soil will become teeming with new life, vibrant and purposeful.

Those consequences, both good and bad, are part of God's plan for everyone...not just us. Its never just about us, is it? Sometimes, we must suffer a storm so that someone else can reap a crop.

We must never forget that we can ask God to send rain; rain to clean our minds and hearts; rain to refresh our relationships; rain to make clear the way of our callings; rain to put our lives and circumstances into perspective.

Yes, it is hard, at times, to remember to ask. But, isn't it a great comfort to know that God doesn't forget our supplications?

Zechariah, the prophet knew this. The overall theme of his prophetic ministry was one of encouragement and great hope. He spoke of the coming of Jesus and of God's sovereignty.

Oh, and did you know that Zechariah's name means "The Lord remembers"?