I had the occasion to attend a contemporary church service where the prelude is provided by a rock band that warms up the “congregation.”  As someone who normally attends a traditional Sunday morning service, attending Saturday night was somewhat like attending a concert, so my normal disinterest in such a performance did not affect the message.  In fact, I will be forever changed by what I heard.

 

The song, “Grace Like Rain” is a version of “Amazing Grace” with special segues between the verses.

Hallelujah, grace like rain falls down on me
Hallelujah, all my stains are washed away, washed away.

 

As the band and congregation swayed with the music, pictures of raindrops, drips and flowing rivulets filled my vision.  I can’t forget the revelation and the feeling of relief that washed over me like the rain.  I can’t forget that image…it was like Helen Keller finally understanding the meaning of “water”. 

 

As one of those people who find it hard to understand the concept of God’s grace, I now have a constant reminder of what it means.  Each time I feel the rain, stand under the shower, watch water dance in a fountain, wash my hands…or feel a tear slide down my cheek…I understand and feel the presence of God’s grace.