The Winter Rains Have Come to Israel!

Picture © Daniel V. Rawlings

Israel has very little rainfall. In fact, one of the first things many people notice is that the country has a light brown or dusty look much of the time. 

It seems that we have only two seasons. The hot, dry summer where one longs for just one cloud in the sky, and the pouring rains.

December to February are generally the time for the heaviest rainfall. Although it is not entirely unusual to see light rains both before and after.

The months from March to November are virtually rain-free. Last night we had a good rain. In fact, it was the first big downpour, complete with flooding streets and traffic jams, that I was caught in.

Picture © Daniel V. Rawlings

While a good soaking is good for the earth, many of us are not so thrilled at the idea of becoming waterlogged.

In Israel, however, there is a feeling of relief and joy when the rains do finally come. The air becomes fresh as the months of dry sandy dust are washed away. The trees glow green and every part of the land seems brighter. And yes, if you look around at the people running for cover the majority are smiling and laughing at getting wet.

The Bible has many references to the life giving rain...Just do a search for "rain &  bible" or any similar combination.

We in Israel truly do give thanks for the rain, for it is very good!

For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven,
And do not return there,
But water the earth,
And make it bring forth and bud,
That it may give seed to the sower
And bread to the eater,

So shall My Word be that goes forth from My mouth;
It shall not return to Me void,
But it shall accomplish what I please,
And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
...Isaiah 55:10-11...New King James Version (NKJV)