God sends rain on the just and the unjust. I have often heard this verse quoted. It is almost always quoted out of context
and completely misinterpreted. Rain is interpreted as troubles and trials. This verse is often used to explain why good people
have to face trials.
Maybe people think of rain as bad because it interferes with our camping and picnics. But these words were spoken to
mostly farmers living in a land with low rainfall. They depended on rain for their survival. To them, rain was a picture of God's
blessing. Reading the phrase in context makes it clear that Jesus is talking about God's blessings.
"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray
for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good,
and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous." (Matthew 5:43-45 NIV)
If you have questions or comments, please email me.
