There’s nothing like a spring shower. The next time a gentle rain impinges on plans, make the best of it. Invite the whole crew to huddle under the brim of one big umbrella and take a walk. As long as you’re not out in a hurricane or lightning, you’ll all be able to catch a little protection from the sprinkles. More than that, you’ll have fun getting wet and standing close to those you love.

Walk slowly. Notice how beautiful the washed world looks. Street signs shimmer, passing cars glimmer. Everything is clean. Control yourself or you may start “singin’ in the rain.” (Although that might be fun, especially if you enjoy mortifying your children!)

While rain-walking you’ll see things you’ve never noticed from a car or city bus: Water washing in rivulets from downspouts. Flowers drooped with moisture. Cats and dogs shaking off droplets. You gain a whole different perspective when you’re out in the weather rather than closed in at home.

Enjoy the closeness with your kids. Take turns holding the umbrella. The younger ones may have to stretch their arms and stand on tippy-toe and the taller ones might need to crouch. When you’re under an umbrella together you need to give a little, share a little. You’ll learn about teamwork and watching out for the other guy or gal’s comfort.

You’ll also discover that God’s rain does indeed fall on all of us. You won’t see one house set apart, standing high and dry in the blazing sun. When it rains, everyone gets wet. Likewise, God’s love is a gift of grace that pours down on all of us with plenty to spare.