Grateful Pigeons
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances as for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-`8 (NIV)
We have so many pigeons here that I can’t even count them. They are intriguing and so colorful; each one being different. They clean up the deer corn and the bird seed that has fallen on the ground. They dance around the feeder poles and snack on spilled seeds. It’s a joyful sight! Peggy Frezon (All God’s Creatures) has an insightful life-lesson to share about pigeons.
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My dog Petey barks at pigeons. This is curious, because he isn’t bothered by any of the other birds at the feeder. He quietly watches the finches, sparrows, and blue jays. But whenever he sees a pigeon, he jumps at the window and tries to scare it off.
Me? I give thanks for pigeons.
The other day I was enjoying the fresh breeze on the porch when Petey started barking. Sure enough, four plump pigeons sauntered by. “Thank You, God, for these beautiful birds,” I said. Yes, beautiful. I love their bright orange feet and the pretty iridescent band of green around their necks. I also love their slow and steady walk, their heads bobbing as if in time to music. And the pleasant cooing sound they make—a gentle, trilly sort of song.
Most of all, I love the way they hang around at the base of the bird feeder, pecking at the seeds. I’ve never seen them compete for a perch above or try to fight off an interloper. They are happy with what falls to the ground. With every little peck, peck, I feel a special message, just for me—“Don’t compete with others. Be thankful for what you have!” I may not always remember to be grateful for the little things, for that which seems like crumbs on the ground. Or for the times that are lean and I desire more. But I can be grateful that I am provided for by a good and loving God. He has bestowed His blessings upon me.
As I continued to relax on the porch rocker, I heard that funny, sweet cooing noise again. I turned to see a particular friendly avian fellow under the feeder. Was he cooing his thank-you? I like to think he was.
Thank You, God, for all my many blessings, for the way You provide for my needs and never leave me. And for this humble bird, the pigeon, who reminds me to be grateful for even the little things. AMEN.