Visitors to the Gulf often have a hard time believing that it rains. The evidence to the contrary is overwhelming. From almost any vantage point, you can find sand and more sand. If you are thinking of going outside, UV factors are in the dangerous range for three days out of four during the year. On top of this, more than half of the year it is seriously hot and humid outside. The premise that it does not rain is easy to believe.
On the way to a birthday party, I considered the premise. On the horizon were dark storm clouds. It looked like it was going to rain and rain hard. A short time later, the roads were flooded, it was difficult to see, and every view from the car was dominated by tangible evidence of rain.
With tangible first-hand evidence, one might think my response to the prospect of rain would change. While I admit it does rain, I have no idea where the umbrellas are in the apartment (assuming we have at least one). As I consider this truth, I realise my compromised thinking is like thinking I am more important than others. The warning has always been here on this front; “If our wrongdoing only underlines and confirms God’s right doing, shouldn’t we be commended for helping out? Since our bad words don’t even make a dent in his good words, isn’t it wrong of God to back us to the wall and hold us to our word? These questions come up.” (Romans 3.5)
Knowing that it rains creates two immediate opportunities. First, find and remember where the umbrellas are kept. If in doubt, use them! Worst case, they can be used to create a shelter of shade when the rains are a distant memory.
Second, take care of anything to do with rain. When it is here, slow down, drive safely, and watch out for others. When it is not, preserve what one has, use it with care, and always be willing to share it with others.
We are water’s witness.
