Passing through the valley of weeping

 

"As they pass through the valley of Baka, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools." - Psalm 84:6

The valley of Baka (or Baca) was known as the place of weeping. It may have been a reference to the indigenous trees found in the valley, that oozed sap from their bark. However, it could also have been a simple a reference to a place that witnessed a lot of pain and tears. 

What I like about the image is that there is a purpose in the weeping. The tears become springs of living water and there are signs of life, despite the pain and suffering. I see this as a message of hope for our troubled world. Even though we will all travel through some valleys of pain, God will use our tears to bring life and hope.

“Tears are God’s gift to us. Our holy water. They heal us as they flow.” — Rita Schiano

Living in Grace

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Water for the thirsty

"For I will pour water on the thirsty land,
    and streams on the dry ground;
I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring,    and my blessing on your descendants." - Isaiah 44:3

We have seen the physical signs of the outpouring of water (rain) in Western Cape lately and it has been glorious. This time last year people were desperate for rain and all those prayers have certainly been heard and answered. Streams are flowing again, rivers are pouring into the sea after many years and waterfalls are brimming with water. 

The second part of today's reading promises that God will pour out his Spirit on our communities too. And we long for that. We long for our dry and thirsty souls to soak up the life giving Spirit of God. 

If you are feeling dry and empty, hold onto this promise. God knows what you need and he will send it in good time.

"The Spirit-filled life is not a special, deluxe edition of Christianity. It is part and parcel of the total plan of God for His people." - A.W. Tozer

Living in Grace
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