Birds
Scripture Reading — Matthew 10:24-31
“Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
Matthew 10:31
As we stroll along trails or in parks or any wooded areas, we often hear a symphony of chirping as birds flit about in the trees. God has blessed creation with a vast and colorful array of birds.
But then we might notice the remains of a young bird that did not survive. “What happened to it?” we might wonder as we continue on our way.
In today’s verses Jesus reminds us that not one sparrow “will fall to the ground outside [our] Father’s care.” And yet how much more will God care for us who are “worth more than many sparrows”!
More literally this verse says, “Not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father.” Rather than implying that it is God’s will for these creatures to die, Jesus is teaching that even though bad things may happen—and God does allow that—still God is right there beside us. God is with us to comfort, refine, and reshape our lives for our good (Romans 8:28).
God himself took the worst that humankind could do—crucify his Son on the cross— and turned it to our salvation. Imagine what he can do in each of our lives!
What an amazing conclusion we come to when we think about the birds of the air and the God who cares for them.
Thank you, Lord, for caring for all your creatures, great and small. Help us to feel your compassionate care in and through all the situations of our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About the author — Gerrit J. Bomhof
Gary Bomhof is pastor of First Christian Reformed Church, Red Deer, Alberta. He and his wife, Jo-Ann, have four children and five grandchildren.
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