Word # 1 - As you asked, here is a written account of the vision that came to me during the event. 

I saw the world during a rain storm. Almost everyone was hurrying along, tucked under umbrellas and hoods, trying to avoid getting wet. Huddled together, cold and shivering as they rushed about their day. But there were some, children and adults, who simply stood in the downpour, faces turned to heaven, soaking in the rain. Laughing and splashing in puddles, hearts and bodies warm, not chilled by the storm.  

I sensed that those avoiding the rain were using umbrellas and jackets as a barrier between themselves and the Lord. Maybe hiding in fear or because of the unknown. For some, the umbrellas represented sin, failure, the uglier parts of our humanity - that which separates us from God and even one another. 

I felt God calling us to be like little children who love playing outside no matter the weather. Who jump in puddles and don’t care about getting wet. The rain in the vision represented God’s love, His mercy, a balm for our souls. We’re to open ourselves, physically and spiritually, spreading our arms and turning our faces to the sky to welcome and receive that love, that mercy.