We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners: the LORD fulfil all thy petitions. Now know I that the LORD saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand. -Psalm 20:5, 6 (KJV)
Something I love about this time of year is going outside right at daybreak and listening to the birds as they sing. The trees around our house sound as though they are filled with birds who cannot wait for the day to begin. Their songs echo off the trees as they break forth in a chorus of praise to God. “Birds praising God?” you ask. To me, when I hear those songs of joy each morning, I believe that all creation, including these humble creatures, are giving praise to God. If creation can break forth in praise to the Lord then certainly we can as well. Do not give into feelings of despair and gloom today. Instead join your voices with those already praising and thanking God for all His blessings even in the midst of trials and difficulties. The Lord is indeed our strength in the problems and heartaches we all must face.
This talk of birds singing causes me to reflect on when I was a seminary student in Louisville, Kentucky. During this time, 1989-92, Andrea and I rented a small apartment. Outside our bedroom window was an awning which sometimes attracted birds to build nests. One year a Robin built a nest in the awning and when I saw there were eggs in the nest I could not bring myself to pull it down. In the coming weeks we watched as the mother diligently tended the nest until the eggs hatched. We then quietly observed the babies as they grew under the care of their mother.
Early one morning there was an unusual amount of chirping and singing in the nest, and when we looked out the window we saw the baby Robins on the edge of the nest apparently ready to take flight. A little while later they were gone and the nest was empty. It sounded like a sort of bird celebration of leaving the nest and facing the larger world beyond. The entire process, repeated since the beginning of creation, fascinated and intrigued us. Consider how much better off we would be if we would face each day and the challenges it brings with the same attitude. Rather than lie down in defeat we rise up in praise and thanksgiving and boldly confront the day and whatever it holds.
We have no reason to fear, for the Lord is with us. We have every reason to trust God and take Him at His word. Faith in Jesus Christ brings victory and according to God’s Word we are free to lift our voices in praise to Him. Stop doubting and start believing.
Rejoice and lift high the banner of the cross. Today is a new day. May we go forth rejoicing and giving to the Lord our all.
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