But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you as well. Matthew 6:33
The day awakens as the sun raises its golden head, sending a glow of light to separate the night from the dawn. The light slowly widens like a sleepy eyelid opening to greet the morning.
I’m not the only early riser for the yard is alive with birds. Their feathers of vivid blues, reds, and subtle grays catch the sunbeams, now cascading over them in a shower of light.
Soon I’m smiling as I see them fluttering beneath the bird feeder.
I watch as sparrows scatter seeds from the feeder to the ground, inviting birds of all kind to feast from their table of bounty.
They’d be no need to claw the soil today. Breakfast appeared from above.
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them…Matthew 6:26a
In another section of the garden, a mass of day lilies unfurl golden trumpets in response to the warmth of the sun. They signal a silent reveille, heralding the morning.
Their beauty sounds a note in my heart.
See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these…” Matthew 6:28, 29
I slip from the garden, back inside to face the day. My face is warm from the sunshine. My heart, aglow from the drama of the morning.
Already the day moves at a faster pace, but I’ve no need for anxiety, for the rest of the message resounds like a song of assurance.
“Are you not more valuable than they?” Mathew 6:26b
I can face whatever the day brings with confidence, for I have witnessed God at work in nature, and I rest secure.
His promise to meet my needs is just as sure.
And for you, dear friend?
His promise is also yours.
Thank you, Father, that what we need today, you graciously supply.
What are your thoughts? I welcome your comments.
Beautiful. What a beautiful picture of His gentle, creative and authoritative interaction. It’s a vivid picture of His strong hand in action using grace and control with precision. He knows what we need, when we need it and where. Thank you, Lord for being so incredibly aware and involved. Your timing is perfect and Your care is perfect.
Stephanie, I wrote this piece years ago. It was never published. When I ran across it a couple of weeks ago, I realized the truth of this post is still true every single day. Love you, friend!
Beautiful truth beautifully written! The photo rivals those of my Instagram friend Megumi who lives in Osaka. She creates with her camera dynamic images where the field of depth is manipulated through her lens to cause one to focus exactly where she wants you to–her subject. You did something similar with your words: the birds, the lilies focused our thoughts right down to the question in Matthew 26 “Are you not more valuable than these?” This is exactly what Jesus did that day talking to his disciples. Your writing, this post, captured that moment…beautifully.
I would love to take beautiful photos like your Instagram friend. I’ll have to check her out. I rely on a service. Thank you for your very kind comment, Felicia. You encourage me, friend.