Her tawny feathers plumped out to protect her against the chill of an early October morning. She sat perched on the edge of my bird feeder, waiting for her morning meal. The sun began its slow ascent over the mountain ridge and the day began to brighten. A misty shroud hovered over the lower yard near the creek, softening the shadows lingering from the night.
Sometimes when shadows linger, worry sneaks in
Even though my mind felt a thousand miles away, the cardinal remained still. Poised. Assured that the hand that feeds her would come.
I sat mesmerized as I watched this creature immersed in peace while she waited calmly in the cold.
Look at the birds of the air, Nan, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value to Me than they? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Why do you have so little faith?
I may have scrunched my face in those moments.
How do You know me so well, Lord?
The Lord had captured my thoughts perfectly. I have been consumed with worry lately, even though I know better. Sometimes when life is hard, and battles are relentless, and shadows linger, worry sneaks in unannounced. This beautiful, peaceful, plumped-up little bird reminded me what peace, faith, and trust look like.
By faith, she waited.
By faith, she trusted.
And now, I must do the same. The Lord has never failed me. He knows my needs, and He knows the concerns of my heart. He knows when shadows of worry linger. Before my prayer leaves my lips, His response is on its way. This I know.
So … by faith, I must wait.
And by faith, I must trust.
And I will.
I pray for you, my friend. I don’t know your needs, but I know the One who does. Cling to Him; feel the grip of His hand in yours as He leads you through your valley. His mercy is great — His love is greater.
When Shadows Linger, Faith Softens Their Impact
Sipping my coffee one more time, I set my cup down and rose from the couch so I could get the birdseed. My movement caused the cardinal to hop to a nearby branch as she anticipated her feast. Carefully, I filled the bird feeder with goodness and love, and watched. As soon as I stepped back, my feathered friend swooped down to eat.
Her feathers were no longer ruffled as the morning light shone on her tawny feathers, bringing warmth to the chilly morning. I watched her from the window. She cocked her head and looked up from her food. Our eyes met, almost with a knowing of something greater.
I believe my Father smiled.
Selah
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Sweet blessings to you,
