Delphinus

After a long, wet spring here (June rainfall 2 - 3 times normal), we're having some unclouded nights. Last night I went out with my binoculars and finally satisfied my curiosity about a  diamond-shaped group of stars that has often caught my eye. It is a pretty little thing.

This tiny constellation is Delphinus, the dolphin. It's no surprise to find a dolphin in the sky, considering the use early navigators made of the stars. But Delphinus happens to be one of the 48 original constellations, which means that it has special significance.

Its significance is found in its Hebrew name, Dalaph, which means pouring out of water. There are other words in the Bible for pour. This particular one is used only a few times, and translated thus:

• Job 16:20: Job pours out tears to God.
• Psalm 119:28: the soul melts away with sorrow.
• Ecclesiastes 10:18: "Because of laziness the building decays, And through idleness of hands the house leaks."

While Aquarius is the pouring out of the waters of blessing, Delphinus is the pouring out of tears of repentance. The message of little Delphinus: As water drops through the roof of a neglected house, so should tears drop from the eyes of those who have neglected their walk with God.

Please remember my book sale goes only until July 25.