In such a dry year, in much of Australia at least, our conversation with God is changed.
Other times, we might just say thanks for all the gifts. But when the shower of gifts (like just being alive!) is moderated by the lack of rain, by a drought, the thanks & praise are mixed with questions and complaints.
Just as they are in the Psalms.
Erik Braunack-Mayer has worked in agriculture for many years. This year he began training for the ministry at the Australian Lutheran College in Adelaide. Preparing to lead a morning chapel next week, he decided to focus on the drought. Couldn't find any suitable songs. Thought one or two of mine might be OK, but wondered if I might write a new one.
I can't resist such an invitation, so I wrote one. At this stage it's just called 'Prayer for Rain', but I hope I might find a better name for it.
If I was web-smarter, I'd have the whole song available here. But only the words are below. For the music email me at
robindormann@ozemail.com.auPRAYER FOR RAIN
1. We know how good this land can be,we’ve seen what it can grow
when rain has fallen as it canand all the rivers flow.
2. But when the clouds refuse to break for days & months & years
the land becomes a barren placeand hope, it disappears.
O hear our prayer,we know you care.Hear us today and always.
3. O God, you fashion every hill, you flatten every plain.
You must have heard the crying ground,come down and make it rain.
O hear our prayer,we know you care.Hear us today and always.4. Why don’t you tear the sky apart — you know our desperate plight?
You hear the cries, you see the tears,O come and set things right.
© Robin Mann 2006
