Blessed Dry Times

In Australia it's summer time.  In South Australia it's particularly dry and there is a real possibility of below average rainfall for the autumn season as well.  This is not unusual for our part of the country.  It's part of the natural cycles and here at Hebron we take the necessary preparations. 

The dams are drying up but we have plenty of rainwater in the tanks and a bore that draws up water from 60 metres below, so for a short dry spell we are well prepared.

We have enough dry feed in the paddocks and bales of hay for the flock of sheep to get us through this dry season. 

I'm actually grateful for this dry spell this month because it means that the evil caltrop has not germinated, saving me from a lot of work.  Caltrop (think the most evil version of a three-corner jack!) needs higher temperatures and good spring rains to germinate - usually in early December.  Caltrop and I will continue our battle if we get rain before the summer ends though!

But what about an extended drought?  A three year or a even a seven year drought?  That's a whole different level of preparation - both physically, mentally and spiritually.  

In our small community there are four properties, either owned by individuals or collectively, and we have been getting prepared for a long drought.   We have lists of items that need to be attended to and time frames to be aware of.  We all live in marginal rainfall areas, therefore we have reasonable expectations and manage the properties appropriately.  Marginal rainfall means that there is a lower chance of rainfall.  

Here at Hebron we have experienced drought in the past and we did not manage the property well but we have learnt our lessons.  Father YHVH has spoken to us about being prepared for an extended drought and we are doing our best to be ready.  

One plant that loves the hot and dry is the caper plant.  They are resilient, deep rooted and productive.  I always say we are like the capers - resilient, deep rooted and productive.  

It takes time and patience to develop deep roots.  It takes long suffering to withstand extreme conditions and remain productive.  It takes trust and faith that dry times and extreme conditions will give way to rain and cooling breezes.   

YHVH is faithful.  His Word is eternal and He is watching over it to perform it.  

When a change of season approaches we are always looking for the 'break' in the season.  That exciting first rain and then the second follow-up rain that is vitally essential.  

As a fellowship we approach a break in the season.  There will be change.  There will be different challenges.  There will be joy and reward.  The river of YHVH's presence will flow and burst the banks.  We have been in an extended season of discipleship, preparation and learning at His feet.  What an absolute blessing and how grateful and humbled we are!