Feeding the Birds!

I know that someone might think, “Oh no! He’s writing about that bird feeder again!” But, now that I have bought a “squirrel proof” bird feeder (which actually does work), I can watch the birds come to the feeder in the morning and evening and enjoy seeing them eat in peace.  It’s truly been quite entertaining and even relaxing to see the variety of birds that show up; to sit and watch them eat and flutter about. 

I’m amazed, however, how much birdseed the birds actually eat!  I expected to fill the feeder about every 3-4 days.  It’s more like every other day, if not sooner!  So, about every other morning, just after putting my coffee on to drip, I go out to feed “my birds!”  In some ways, they have become like pets for which I feel responsible. Even though I know that they will survive very well without my help, I sense an obligation to keep the bird feeder full.  Sometimes, as I’m filling it up I even begin to talk to the birds saying things like, “Here comes breakfast” and “Come and eat!” (I know that sounds weird!) 

Some of the birds I fed this morning!

Today as I was filling up the bird feeder, however, I thought of the words of Jesus: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?  Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” (Matthew 6:25-27 – NIV)

Watching the birds come and eat at my birdfeeder reminds me of how God not only provides for the birds but, even more so for you and me. The birds remind me of how God so faithfully provides for us as his children.  I’m reminded that God is constantly involved in providing for us and meeting our needs; that nothing in our lives goes unnoticed; that he is ever-watching and ever-caring. Thus, we need not worry or strive. Instead, we can live our lives with faith, confidence, hope, and peace.

Let’s take to heart Jesus’ words. Let’s not allow ourselves to give into worry about the things of this life. Rather, let’s remember that if God will provide for the little birds he will do so even more so for you and me!

Have a great day!

Pastor Tim Harris