(A journal dialogue between God and me)
ME:
I love temperate mornings like this, Father, when I can spend moments on the deck with you, reveling in your creation. Thank you for this little island of quiet amidst urban commotion.
Dark clouds of yesterday have given way to those that artists love to paint: cotton puffs of white, some breeze-pulled into wisps.
The black walnut tree already wears many golden leaves. Occasional leaf showers create a dazzling parade of drifting sunflakes. Summer has acquiesced to fall.
Our squirrel friends have picked up another game of tag. They dash at alarming speed from tree to tree, and sometimes spiral up and down the trunks. Familiarity may contribute to their surefootedness, but such dare-devil antics still amaze.
At least several hummingbirds have visited the feeder since I settled in my chair. No doubt they’re fueling up for migration.
Some hover as they drink, wings and tails a blur of motion. Others rest briefly on the bar, take a quick sip, then fly up and back to warily scan their surroundings. A few partake from one opening and then another. Perhaps they’re hoping for different flavors?
Still others rest on the bar and take long gulps. When this latter group pauses, they remain still. Their glances about appear relaxed, as if they’re simply enjoying the view.
GOD:
Let the habits of the hummingbirds inform yours.
You are one of my little hummingbirds—small and practically defenseless. But you can fly! In your spirit you can fly at hummer-speed to me, your Provider and Protector.
In me you find all you need, just as the nectar in flowers or feeders provides for the hummingbirds all that they need.
Let the hummers who rest be a reminder to you. There is no reason to be in constant flight, hovering over this task and then on to the next in a flurry of hurry.
Take note of the birds who rest on the bar and enjoy their surroundings between sips. How can you do the same?
The occasional worship-pause at the kitchen window is a good start.
And your daily gratitude journal offers more moments of reverent respite.
ME:
You just gave me another idea, Father (1).
As you lead me to scriptures or quotes that inspire praise, I can copy them to tuck here and there as reminders.
GOD:
And when you come across one of those cards, quietly rest a moment in its truth. Look around and within for reasons to thank and praise me, as prompted by that scripture or quote.
And what will be the result? Refreshing restoration. Renewed energy. Augmented joy. Deeper peace (2)—in spite of the troubling political and social climate and concerns surrounding Covid.
Fly with confidence into the days ahead, little bird—strengthened and refreshed in me.
Notes:
- James 1:17. All good gifts come from God—even good ideas.
- Psalm 23:1-2; Psalm 19:7-8; Psalm 119:111; Psalm 119:165.
Photo credits: Nancy Ruegg; http://www.wikimedia.com; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.wikimedia.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; Nancy Ruegg (3); http://www.needpix.com.
From the Inside Out 