The clouds were gathering. In the distance, over the mountains, he could see dark purples and greys as they gathered in the winter morning light. It had been a long while since the dry land of New Mexico had enjoyed a good old fashioned rain storm. John couldn’t even remember the last time he had to use the rain gear he kept in the saddlebag of his well-used motorcycle.
Maybe, the clouds would just pass on by and not even deposit their precious content. The state, even the nation, seemed to be in perpetual drought. New Mexico had seen some of the largest wildfires in the state’s history just in the last few years, and this year was looking to be even worse. The Midwest and Plain states alternated between severe droughts and devastating floods, the water coming too hard and fast to do the earth any service. Once known as the world’s bread basket, America was drying up.
Still, this storm appeared different. There was something in the air, John could feel it. He could smell it, almost taste it. The dark clouds agreed with his mood, they agreed with the way he saw the world right now. They agreed with his view of the United States. There was a storm coming. But it would not be easy to endure.
The Preacher mounted his bike, the well worn saddle received him like an old friend. The brisk morning air brought the world into sharp focus as John started the engine. He wondered about the church he was invited to speak to today. America’s rural churches were aging and fading, just like the glory days of America herself. John knew there was a connection, but few would recognize this or acknowledge it. He looked forward to making the two hour drive, but how many believers would greet him and how many would even prefer to hear the message he brought. After all, the Good News, wasn’t seen as either good or news by most people today.
John approached the highway, he pulled back on the throttle to reach the speed limit. He loved the open road. The smells of the world around him, the wind hitting his body and the sights that greeted him caused him to give glory to his Lord and Savior, Jesus the Messiah. What a magnificent world God created.
Little did this preacher know of what awaited him. His world was about to be turned upside down.