Freak of Nature or Beautiful?
For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. Colossians 1:16-17 (ESV)
This is a piebald. Michael took its picture yesterday morning and at first, he thought it was this year’s fawn that still had snow on it. Then he realized the difference. We seem to have quite a few around the county this year.
A little Google research turned up this information: Common misconceptions about piebald deer include that they are cursed or magical, that killing one brings good luck, bad luck, or death, and that they are a cross between a whitetail and an albino deer. In reality, a piebald is a genetic condition that causes a lack of full pigmentation and is not necessarily a sign of a magical or cursed animal.
As I also enjoyed seeing this little deer, I thought about all the less-than-perfect births that happen in our world. Perhaps that is not the best description to use. God makes things perfect in His time. Who are we to judge perfection? I can’t even define it!
The beautiful French bulldog puppy born without front legs. A piebald fawn. A blind kitten. The horse with one leg shorter. Where is the perfection in all of these? How can these be considered gifts from God?
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5, ESV).
So, we are instructed to give up our individual preconceive notions and definitions of perfect. We do not need to decide if something is a freak of nature or beautiful. We are to cling to what is before us; what God has made. We cannot be weighed down with purpose but must rejoice in pure love.
Nature takes care of its own. How about us?
Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created (Revelation 4:11, ESV).
Gracious God, thank You for all of creation. Without questions, help us to find joy, hope, and peace in all Your handiwork, in each animal and in each person. Let us rejoice in You! AMEN.
Photo: Michael Johnston 11/18/25