Birds

I don’t remember the exact time in my life when my dad started feeding the birds. He started setting out in their shared backyard, four or five different seeds, syrups and cakes. The birds flocked to his trees. We would get so excited seeing the different birds, bunnies, squirrels and chipmunks that would flock to his little storehouses.

I remember that his neighbors complained about the mess and all the animals, but my dad would ignore and continue providing for these little animals. I remember one conversation distinctly with my dad where he stated, that he felt this was a ministry.

As dad has started to decline, he has had to stop his little ministry. A couple of months ago, I decided to pick up the mantle and begin feeding the birds in my own yard. It is lovely to look out and see all the cute little birds. I get excited to see the cardinals. I love to watch the cats (from inside) flick their tails and watch with delight. Our dogs love to watch as well.

I realize there is a deeper, more spiritual context if I pause and consider. On one hand, I am reminded of this Scripture:

”Are not two little sparrows sold for a copper coin? And yet not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered [for the Father is sovereign and has complete knowledge]. So do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows.“
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭10‬:‭29‬-‭31‬ ‭AMP‬‬
https://bible.com/bible/1588/mat.10.29-31.AMP

Every time I look out on the birds, see them munching happily away at the provisions I have given them, I remember. My Father in heaven knows all that is happening in my little life and He is so intimately involved He knows the hairs on my head.

”So do not be like them [praying as they do]; for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.“
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬
https://bible.com/bible/1588/mat.6.8.AMP

He knows even before I ask Him.

I also think about how I am a part of keeping little birds alive on these very cold days. Yet, if I stop feeding the birds, they find other places, but by my involvement, I am a part of their survival.

I’ve been challenged by my mediation on Matthew 6. Jesus doesn’t say if you want to feed the poor. He says when. I can be apart of someone’s rescue by listening to the prompts and nudges of the Holy Spirit. Birds are beautiful, but people delivered from hunger or homelessness or isolation transforms lives.

So, my question today, how can I be a part of Jesus’ command, when you feed the poor? I’m going to be dwelling on that this Sunday morning. I’m getting a little low on seed for the birds, so a shipment comes in today. 🙂

Peace.