Journeying to Grace

Then God said: …on the earth let birds fly beneath the dome of the sky. (Gen 1:20)

Ordinarily it would be just another bird in the yard – I see them frequently. But when I noticed the bird in this photo through my kitchen window, I was in the midst of prayerful reflection, so I continued to watch with a spiritual perspective and focus. This bird, like all living things, was created perfectly. ‘God looked at everything he had made, and it was very good.’ (Gen 1:31) In contemplating this perfect design, I appreciated the creation of the bird’s striking orange breast, its keen awareness of the sounds and movements all around, and the beauty of its opened wings soaring gracefully and effortlessly to a nearby tree. Believing there was a lesson of spirit for me here, I hoped the bird wouldn’t fly away before I was at least a little enlightened.

What soon stirred in my reflection was the idea of strength. I looked at the very thin legs of this bird. At a glance, they might appear too fragile to handle the great task of supporting the weight of a larger body. But what we see on the outside is not the whole picture. Enough strength has been provided; it is just hidden. When we are fragile and experiencing weakness and fatigue, the spiritual strength we seek is there; it just might be hidden by worries and doubt. By perfect design, the bird’s strong structure is on the inside, unseen. And by perfect design, we too have been provided with all the strength we need in Christ. ‘I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.’ (Phil 4:13) Even though we may not see it, or in times when our strength is hidden, it is still within us.

As children of God, we are created to seek that enduring strength in Him. We know our spiritual strength is present because the Lord is present. ‘Haven’t I commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid; don’t be discouraged. Because the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.’ (Joshua 1:9) Accompanied by Christ, let us pray we find the strength of spirit within us and welcome the healing peace it brings.