Safekeeping Creation

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. Luke 12:6-7 (NIV)

Out here in the country, feeding the birds and critters could almost be a full-time job. Michael does a great job keeping the feeders full in snow storms even when the wind is screaming and the sleet is stinging his face. It takes a loving, gentle heart to do these things. Heidi Gaul (Mornings with Jesus) and I have a couple things in common—love of nature and wonderful husbands.

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Standing at the window of our cozy cottage, I stared out at the wintry scene. With temperatures well below freezing and the wind blowing amid an ice storm, no cars drove passed, no delivery vans parked nearby. I saw zero activity, aside from the numerous birds gathered around our maple where the feeders hung empty. They looked hungry. And I worried—had my husband, David, and I stored enough provisions for ourselves to make it through until the weather cleared?

Getting seed out to the birds seemed daunting. A blanket of snow hid a thick layer of ice covering the walkways and road. The front and back stairs were too treacherous to consider. Then David mentioned the basement steps. Protected from the weather, they’d be the safest exit. We could help our feathered friends after all. As he made his way to the feeders, the birds scattered, then returned to feast on the nourishment they sorely needed.

I watched, giving thanks that we could take part in Jesus’s safe-keeping of this tiny part of His creation. As my husband stamped snow from his shoes in the mudroom, a sigh escaped my lips. I didn’t need to spend my time fretting. Jesus’s Word, emblazoned on my heart, reminded me I would not go hungry. To Him, I was worth many sparrows. A priceless promise indeed.

FAITH STEP: Do you know any sparrows, feathered or otherwise, in need? Set aside some time to fill your bird feeders, donate to a food pantry, or provide a meal for someone. Feed everyone with kindness as Jesus did.

All Creatures of Our God and King

Loving Lord, thank You for all of creation. Teach us to take better care of what is before us. Awaken our hears to those in need and nudge us into action. AMEN.