Pools in the Desert
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All this rain in the desert and all the empty toilet paper shelves have got me thinking.
First, the toilet paper:
For the vast majority of human history, and for much of the world’s population today, toilet paper is not a part of their lives. In fact, about 4 billion people in today’s world do not use toilet paper. This is over 70%. Toilet paper is expensive, wasteful, and does not work with the plumbing systems of many places. Water is the universal solvent. So, when Costco, Target, Walgreens, and the Dollar Store were all sold out of t.p., I started to think about how I can convince my girls that it is time for us to join the majority of the world. Instead, I ended up buying some toilet paper for like $1,000 dollars a roll at Whole Foods. At least these toilet paper rolls save energy, water, and trees. What?
Now for the rain:
For the vast majority of human history, and for much of the world’s population today, rain is a vitally important thing. Without rain the crops don’t grow. If the crops don’t grow there is not enough food. Without enough food, winter is a stressful, hungry season, if not worse. On the other hand, if there is an abundance of rain, there will be an abundance of crops, and winter is a worry-free and celebration-filled season.
In the Bible, there are many verses that equate rain with the blessing and favor of God. Likewise, lack of rain can be a sign of God’s displeasure. Then, some Bible writers push the analogy further by speaking about rain in the desert. They say to take special note when you see pools in the desert, because it is a sign that God is taking special note of the dry and thirsty.
Today, as I look out my windows and see another day of Irish-type rain here in Phoenix, I can’t help but smile and believe that, in the midst of all our societal shaking right now, God is poised to demonstrate His abundant, powerful love to those who are dry and thirsty.
In the midst of the panic, don’t forget that God is on the throne and He is a very present help in time of need. His blessings abound, even in times of disruption.
Today, if you are thirsty and/or weak, come to the fountain and dip your heart in the streams of His love. Let your pain and your sorrow be washed away in the waves of His mercy.
Enjoy the rain. And good luck with the toilet paper,
David