In This Storm

“I was sure by now
God You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say "Amen", and it's still raining”

Praising God in a storm is one of the hardest things to do.  Because as the song says we often expect Jesus to step in and save the day, wiping away our tears.

So as the thunder rolls and the lightnin' strikes and the rain continues to blow, a group of people –– a team have come together to collaborate. Team Brandon gains strength through its members and their faith.  Team Brandon does not require any type of membership, nor does it have reoccurring dues to pay. There isn’t even a captain to give out assignments, tasks or roles.  Being strong is not all it takes.

No, team Brandon is normal everyday people.  Any and every person that wants to be apart of something that goes beyond what our own individual hands can accomplish. Every one has something to contribute.  Prayer.  Action.  Thoughts.  Money.  Time.  Love.  Spirit.  Compassion.  Ideas.  Some people give ideas shape.  People who turn ideas into verbs.  People that take action.  Others acquire various strategic elements required to insure ideas happen. Slowly, the plans always come to fruition.

Every single thing we will accomplish will be because of individuals that make up Team Brandon.  The purpose of this blog is not to lift up individuals and their accomplishments, because again, the Team is to be thanked and God is to be praised.

That is not to say individuals should not be recognized.  There are some folks I would like to personally say “thank you” for letting your lights shine.  Larina Bowers used her graphic talents and let her light shine to raise money for a family she will never know.  Jennifer Sickmeier let her light shine though organizing a remarkable bake sale.  Amanda Lawson’s light continuously shines as she shows compassion to the family and works tirelessly to find new ways to help this family. Catherine Smiley has lent her husband’s name and memory to a charitable golf tournament.

And you?  You give of your heart.  You give hope and faith.  Hope and faith are two of the largest ingredients needed for a cure.  So while your name may not be found on this blog, I can assure you that it can most certainly be found in Jesus’ heart where he is casting crowns.

“And I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm.”