Today is the beginning of the third week in July. According to the National Weather Service we’ve had only 1/10 of an inch of rain since April 1st. This is no April fool joke, this is for real.
According to today’s newspaper there are now 26 states, including mine, declared as drought disaster areas with probably more to come. It also stated that over one half of this country’s grasslands (for grazing) are now affected. So much for lower food prices.
My town has put into place a watering ban which stays in effect indefinitely. The local reservoir is so low boating is restricted. Many boats moored at their owner’s docks now sit in thick ugly black mud. But it could be worse.
We could live in the time of Haggai who reminded the Jews to put God first and to rebuild the temple of God rather than working on their own homes.
Listen to the Lord Almighty as He scolds the people,
“… Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with your own house. Therefore, because of you the heavens have withheld their dew and the earth its crops. I called for a drought on the fields and the mountains, on the grain, the new wine, the olive oil and everything else the ground produces, on people and livestock, and on all the labor of your hands.” Haggai 1:9-11
I certainly pray this condition doesn’t last much longer. Corn and soybean farmers are devastated, corn stocks raised to feed pigs are almost depleted and retention ponds all across my town are close to dry. I have a neighbor who watered his lawn almost daily and stopped when the ban was announced. In three short days it went from lush green to brown. Some even say our drinking water could soon become suspect.
With ninety degree plus temperatures, in addition to the lack of rain, there are enormous health concerns especially for the elderly. Daily reports of deaths as a result of the heat are horrible reminders to those of us blessed with air conditioning. The most affected are the poor, the homeless and the sick.
Read with me the words inscribed for generations from the book of Job,
“As the heat and drought snatch away the melted snow, so the grave snatches away those who have sinned.” Job 24:19
We need to always be prepared for the final journey.
Are you?
Manna and Coffee 