Rain At The Right Time (Joel 2:13-29; 2 Timothy 1:6)

The people of Judah we encounter in the Old Testament book of Joel are struggling after serious disaster. Crops have been decimated by infestations of locusts, while fire and drought have destroyed pasture land. The resulting lack is so significant that even temple offerings of grain and wine have been cut off. The prophet Joel calls all the people, from the greatest to the least, to pray. In response to their prayers, God promises that much-needed rain and the resulting abundant harvest are on the way. Their work in the fields - sowing, tending, gathering, etc. - can now proceed in joyful faith, knowing that an abundant, diverse harvest is sure. Our 'fields' and neighborhoods today are awaiting us too, and God is bringing His rain of righteousness to them at just the right time.