How like diamonds sparkling in sunlight are dewdrops! The early morning sun emblazons a dazzling beauty as its rays touch each tiny drop, transforming it into a spectacle of joy. Don’t you thrill at seeing dewdrops in early mornings gleaming on grass, leaves, and meadows!? I do. It is almost like God washed the world last night and left sun rays gently buffing them dry.
When I pass a golf course in early morning it seems almost sacrilegious that trails from golfers are tracking across the dewy grass. On the other hand, it amuses me to see wild animal trails tracing through the dew-drenched grass. Yet, I know God did not create the world for my preferences only. I am learning (I think,) to be tolerant of Dewdrops. They have their purpose.
According to National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON), a continental-scale observation facility—a branch of The National Science Foundation— Dew is a more prolific producer of water than rainfall! Our planet depends on dew. Our fresh water systems in the United States —- though imperfect, would be in worse shape without the careful monitoring of an agency like NEON. Here in Metro-Atlanta, work has been underway for years cleaning up brooks, streams, and rivers. A lot of progress has been made; much more is needed.
With attention turned to rivers and streams, it is easy to overlook the immense basic value dewdrops have. As I write this, our area is in a rain deficit, termed a moderate drought—fire danger warnings are issued. Dew is essential as a secondary moisture source. Scientist François Ritter, a Ph.D., explains, Dew is not enough by itself to keep plants alive long term, but during periods of drought these secondary processes become more relevant. Dew may help some species survive drought conditions.
Aside from citing a galaxy if scientific, ecological, and agricultural data, I affirm the myriad blessings from dewdrops, including their beauty. God comes to us in many ways—one is dew. Dew is mentioned more than three dozen times in the Bible. Some are specific to everyday understanding of dew, some are metaphorical, and others are analogies.
There are two that stand out to me; Actually, this first mention of dew —and used several times–it is about food for the Israelites. They had complained about the scarcity of food there in the wilderness; the Back-to-Egypt-Committee wants to return to Egypt. God provided food–quail and manna—dew that turned into flakes suitable for bread making. Several other references to dew refer to this miracle.
Another mention of dew—that attracts me—is a different kind; It is God’s message. Warriors from Midian were laying siege on the Israelites, now hiding in fear, in caves; disaster loomed. God sent a messenger to a farmer’s son, Gideon. The first time I read this version in The Living Bible, I was alone in my camper, working on a sermon. As I read chapter 6, I literally broke out in to laughter. Gideon’ reaction to the voice of God was so human! Gideon’s “dew test” required God (yes, Gideon tested God!) to repeat it three times before he trusted God’s leading.
Gideon’s dew test may seem as small as it is absurd; yet it underscores the immense importance of little things. God is great, but often, if not mostly, God uses little things—like dewdrops—to accomplish much.
©Copyright Willis H. Moore 2023
I just started the day with “Fridays With Willis” — what a good way to end the (work) week! We are in a drought in most of Alabama, but I can see dew outside our kitchen window on the grass. Thank you for reminding your readers that little things mean a lot.
Thank you Dottie. Your comment is as refreshing as dew drops! We, too are in drought comditions. Outdoor fire warnings are afoot. I find it interesting that as dry as the ground can get, dew drops still form! They are as welcome as manna!
Very interesting. I love to see dew on grass. Have a good day.
Thank you Elaine! You are delightful, and a faithful reader.