Prayers for Rain?

Then Elijah said to Ahab, “Go get something to eat and drink, for I hear a mighty rainstorm coming!” So Ahab went to eat and drink. But Elijah climbed to the top of Mount Carmel and bowed low to the ground and prayed with his face between his knees.  Then he said to his servant, “Go and look out toward the sea...” And soon the sky was black with clouds. A heavy wind brought a terrific rainstorm, and Ahab left quickly for Jezreel.  
1 Kings 18

I suppose this blog entry could be considered a "part deux" to yesterday. High temperatures, drought, and forest fires have plagued large areas of the United States and after last year's record-breaking fires in Colorado, this season is even worse.

It is interesting that in some of those regions services have been held to pray for rain. In Oklahoma they have taken the step to make this an interfaith initiative. Some would say that this is magic, a very unscientific approach to the consequences of climate change. While there are biblical stories of invoking God to bestow rain, they come from long ago and far away.

I like that it is Oklahoma Interfaith Prayers for Rain and Water Stewardship. It invites responsibility from humans who have helped create the crisis instead of just saying "God, make it better!" Our prayers need to include humility and a change of heart and habits.

I have visited New Mexico several times for conferences and I know that water is a scarce and precious commodity at the best of times. This year has been terribly dry and Roman Catholic bishops have offered up this simply prayer:

"Look to our dry hills and fields, dear God, and bless them with the living blessing of soft rain. Then the land will rejoice and rivers will sing your praises, and the hearts of all will be made glad. Amen."

The next day set for rain prayers is June 26th, but we can pray for stewardship every day.

After such a wet Spring in Southern Ontario we may be feeling a little smug about water, but what are your thoughts?