It is rainy season in The Gambia and that means it is hot, humid and we have thunderstorms most days. When I flew into the country I was pleased that everything was so green. This is our only growing season for crops and a good harvest is a key to survival. After a good amount of rain during my first week in the city, I expected to see very wet and muddy roads here in the village upon my return. However, when I made the turn off of the paved road I was shocked to find the sand road dry and easy to maneuver. I quickly heard that it had been 20 days with no rain! 20 days with no rain in the peak of farming season with no other form of irrigation can be devastating. So, my teammate and I quickly began praying for rain and the Lord answered. Everyday since my return there has been at least some rain and many days it has been non-stop (as I type this there is a huge downpour with thunder and lightning). While it is a wonderful blessing that the Lord has brought rain for the crops it would be nice if it would ease up for a couple of days. The constant and heavy rains are actually too much for the crops, the continuous wet is making mud block houses very unstable, the rain is making visits and work very challenging, our solar power needs sun to operate and line drying clothes in this rain is an adventure.
Yesterday one of our workers announced that he is having a baby naming ceremony at his house today for his new grandchild. He knew we had been praying for rain in the name of Jesus and was grateful that God answered that prayer. However, for the celebration he asked if we would pray for no rain today and we did. As I awoke early this morning I walked outside to pray and gasped because the sky was crystal clear and full of so many stars. It appeared God had chosen to answer that prayer for no rain. But, a few hours later and the grumbling thunder and bright lightning began and then the skies let loose. God is sovereign and He is over the rain, the harvest and the hearts of man. So, in this rain I trust Him and I give Him thanks and I try to stay dry. Join us in praying for the harvest in The Gambia, the spiritual harvest and earthly harvest. Join us in praying for the right amount of rain and sun. Join us in thanking God for His provision.
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