Rain, Rain, Rain
Welcome to tropical Abilene! When we moved to West Texas 3 1/2 years ago, Abilene was in the middle of a decade long drought. While there were signs the drought was lifting, parched and barren were the key desciptions for our weather and landscape.
However, rain was more prevalent the two previous years and 2007 had made us all re-investigate the plans God gave Noah for the Ark. Water, especially rainwater, have always been precious in Abilene. But with seasonal rains has also come the awful consequences of flooding. Our church and community have had families live through flooding even in the drought-stricken years. Some who suffered fires the last two summers have endured flooding this year. So all our rain, and all our green terrain in August, are welcomed, but we do have deep concern for those who have lost everything or have it threatened while we wait to see if the current round of rain subsides.
When Jesus talks about the refreshing water of God, the Holy Spirit, in John 7:37-39, I am thankful that there can’t be too much of this precious water. So as rain is present and sometimes threatening to many communities and people right now, let’s use it’s abundance as the motivation to pray for God’s Spirit to “rain down” and “reign in” us, our families and our churches. There is never too much of this “good thing” from our Father in heaven who sends His Spirit in powerful and fresh ways when we ask!
“Which of you fathers, if your son asks for6 a fish, will give him a snake instead? Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (Luke 11:11-13 TNIV)