Monday 1 January 2007

Rain On Us, Please!

The weather for today (in the middle of summer) states "Few showers. Possible thunderstorms. Max 29oC" Yes, rain on us, please! Ironically, retired General John Gowans wrote in one of his many compositions, "You can't stop rain from falling down". Problem is, we here in Australia can't seem to start it falling! [Having said that, Christmas Day was a really wet one and an answer to prayer for rain. Thank you, Lord!]
As we experience yet another summer of drought, our local Herald Sun newspaper has just reported the possibility of introducing Stage 4 water restrictions very soon. Nature is crying out for sustenance ~ lawns and gardens everywhere look pretty much drab, as evidenced in this recent photo of our 'dry' front lawn. Thank goodness it can still look tidy though!

What an encouragment it is to know that, even in the midst of physical drought, we who live lives of faith in Jesus Christ can continue to experience the satisfaction of 'well-watered' spirits ~ for He is truly the Water of Life!
Consider the truth of these words by another former General, Albert Orsborn:
Life is a journey; long is the road,
And when the noontide is high
Souls that are weary faint 'neath their load,
Long for the waters, and cry:

The well is deep and I require
A draught of the water of life,
But none can quench my soul's desire
For a draught of the water of life;
Till one draws near who the cry will heed,
Helper of men in their time of need,
And I, believing, find indeed
That Christ is the water of life.

Life is a seeking, life is a quest,
Eager and longing desire;
Unto the true things, unto the best,
Godward our spirits aspire.

Life is a finding; vain wand'rings cease
When from the Saviour we claim
All we have longed for, solace and peace,
And we have life in his name.

Our prayer this New Year ~ "Lord, rain on us, please! Continue to saturate our experiences with Your showers of blessing that flood our souls with eternal joy. Amen."
Back to words of John Gowans ~ "You can't stop God from loving you, His love is new each morning." Now that's refreshing. Hallelujah!