The reason birds can fly and we can’t is simply that they have perfect faith, for to have faith is to have wings. J.M. BARRIE, The Little White Bird
For the last two month’s I’ve watched a pair of house wrens build their nest, protect their nest, feed their babies, and kick the twins from the nest. Well, I didn’t actually see them get kicked out. 🙂
Birds are fascinating to watch. They started building their nest on the cement slab at the top corner on our front porch but it kept falling off. My husband found a birdhouse in the basement so he placed it in the corner for them. We were not sure they would use it but it didn’t take long for them to build their new home.
Birds can teach us many life lessons. I spent many a moment watching Wrenny and Winny. (Yes, I name all the critters around here).
1. Patience ~ Sitting on the porch, watching the parents back and forth, bringing worms and insects to feed their babies, I was reminded (and convicted) of times when I’m impatient. Patiently watching these little birds, yet impatient waiting on my husband to do this or go here. Why is that? I don’t know but these little birds are helping me learn to be more patient, especially with John.
2. Sing loud ~ Wrens are little but they sing loud! I read that one reason the male house wren sings is to defend the nest. This reminds me of the song Surrounded (fight my battles). The enemy (the devil) hates when we worship Jesus. Sing loud with praise music! It might just help to defend our nest!
3. Slow down ~ Watching the life on the porch allowed me to purposely take time to slow down. The laundry and dirty dishes will always be there. Slowing down has health benefits which makes it worthwhile. When we rush around so busy we miss some good stuff of life.
4. Rest ~ Birds perch to rest. It’s ok to perch on the sofa and take a nap once in a while. Or sit and do nothing. God rested and we need to also.
5. Let go ~ In order to move on, birds have to lift off the branch by letting go of the branch. What do you need to let go of so you can move on? I have some letting go to do.
With all that is going on in our world today, it’s easy to worry. It helps to practice these 5 “bird observations” to gain some peace. God’s word is also a big comfort because it’s just that…God’s word to us. When we believe His words, we can have peace that He will take care of us. Matthew 6:26 is just one example of His care:
26 Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are?
Now that the twins have flown away to begin their life, maybe I’ll get some cleaning done.
What are some lessons you’ve learned from observing nature?
Thank you for reading. I hope this post brought a smile to your face and some hope in your heart.
