a bird in winter

I was watching birds through my work window yesterday.  They were flitting about and landing on the young maple trees close to our building.  The leaves of those maples have finally let go and the branches are bare.  I thought about the challenge that birds face who live through the winter in our area.  The nights are cold and long, insects become scarce, food becomes harder to find, shelter is a challenge with leafless trees and since birds are warm-blooded they have to keep their body temperature up.  One strategy birds follow is to form flocks in the fall to help find food and protect against predators.  We, too, can find ourselves living through winter experiences (and it can happen anytime during the year)!  There are times when every aspect of life can seem difficult even though life has been much easier in the past.  Beyond food, shelter and basic necessities we also may feel like we are living in the bare branches of a winter tree emotionally and spiritually.  I think the Lord's provision becomes all the more apparent at these times.  He is faithful to feed and shelter us in our inner person even as we move through winter.  He keeps our "body temperature" up by the warmth of His presence and His voice in word and prayer.  When we live on branches without leaves the view of the sky is unblocked and we may turn to Him more readily.  It is helpful to flock with others who trust Him as well.

 

Job 12:⁷ "But ask the animals, and they will teach you,
       or the birds of the air, and they will tell you;

 ¹⁰ In his hand is the life of every creature
       and the breath of all mankind."

 

blessings and thanks to He who made us, restored us and keeps us,

Rob Smith