Read Genesis 9:8-17

When the rainbow is set in the clouds, I will remember my covenant that is between me and you and every living creature … (Genesis 9:14-15)

I met the young girl and her mother in the waiting room of the medical building. The walls were an off-white, grey. The room felt antiseptic, cool. I nodded and said hello. 

The girl grinned, “Do you like my hat?” She was wearing a wide-brimmed sun hat displaying a riot of colours – bright purple, red, yellow, orange and green. “Yes, I do!” She took it off and showed me the other side of her reversible hat, which was a dull, slate blue. “What made you decide to wear the bright-coloured side today?” She paused. “I think the world needs more colour.”

Colours are universal signs of faith. It’s called White Monday in France, Green Sunday in Poland. In North America Pentecost is indicated by a bright red colour. The church calendar is distinguished by various colours. Blue, white, purple, red and green convey meaning about the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus. 

In the bible, divine promise and grace are given by the rainbow. The rainbow colours displayed today on church windows, doors and walls communicate affirmation to diverse people seeking community in safe spaces. Colours bring life, light and joy to a suffering world.

Thank you God for giving us the rainbow colours of affirmation, hope, and healing.