Rain of gratitude

AT THE beginning of this year, Day Zero in Cape Town seemed inevitable. Most residents were in a state of panic and gravely concerned as to whether there would be good winter rains this year to avert the impending disaster. Thankfully, however, the average Cape Town dam level has risen from only 31% on January 1 to 57% last week. At the beginning of August last year, it was a mere 27%.

It was very good to see various people, including those from other provinces, working together and trying to assist in ensuring the taps do not run dry.

What was, however, most encouraging, was to see the many public and other religious gatherings held to pray for rain. Even though many actions were embarked upon, it was clear that the real breakthrough came from the water which rained down from heaven; and was no doubt in answer to people’s prayers.

Even though a lot more rain is still needed, it is also of critical importance for people to express their thanks.

This should be done not only in private, small groups and conversations, but also in newspapers and on social media. Our gratitude to God for blessing the city and region with rain must also be shown in public through thanksgiving services and at other religious or public events and rallies.

Amid the yearning desires of residents for the lifting of water restrictions and even as the winter season draws to a close, these gatherings should also include prayer for more rain.

Not only is it a good thing to give thanks unto God for the rain, but our expression of gratitude may also in itself result in us being blessed with more of that which we have already been blessed with thus far.