NOTES for 3 Цар 18:41-46
In today’s Old Testament reading, rain is not merely a natural phenomenon but also a sign of God’s forgiveness. It is striking that Elijah tells Ahab, “There is the sound of rain,” and then continues praying for a long time, sending his servant to the sea seven times... He knows that forgiveness is near, and that is why he speaks this way to Ahab—but it is still necessary to turn to God and pray for that forgiveness. It is not enough that Israel has acknowledged that the Lord is God. A prayer for forgiveness is still needed—but the prayer of someone who is firmly assured of that forgiveness, as Elijah is.