The Beauty of Sacrifice

     I can only imagine the smile of delight and approval God had on his face when he crafted and and released the first bluebird into the sky. If birds can experience the feeling of jealousy, it must have occurred when that first bluebird soared into their territory.  Now, to each his own concerning a favorite bird species–not that many of you have probably pondered that question! So, call me the Crazy Bird Lady!

     I bring this up to share a recent discovery. There have been two families of bluebirds that have hatched and flown from bluebird boxes we have provided for nesting. When the little family has grown and flown, we remove the nest and clean the house for future residents. This year I noticed a difference in the nests which I suspect was caused by an unusually cold spring. The nests, which typically look like compact straw mattresses, were insulated with numerous feathers contributed by the mom and dad. It is obvious in this photograph these parents were dedicated to the warmth and comfort of their offspring. They had made a sacrifice, probably painful as they plucked away their own feathers, a testimony to their parental commitment.
     How like God to put this element of Himself, that of sacrifice, into these beautiful birds. God is  a dedicated parent who made for us the ultimate sacrifice–the Crucifixion of His son, Jesus, on a cross for the forgiveness of our sins. Jesus withstood a horribly painful death because of His love for us and dedication to His Father. God did, Jesus did, the bluebirds did; they all sacrificed for a greater cause. We are called to do no less than this little bluebird couple. Whether it be a sacrifice of money, or time, comfort, we have been called in this world to be the hands and feet of Jesus and follow His example. When was the last time any of us actually gave of ourselves or our material belongings until it hurt–not just until it was a tad bit uncomfortable like giving up new pair of shoes or an expensive cup of coffee?
     I challenge you as I do myself to become sensitive to your surroundings and God’s call for you to make sacrifices in your life for Him, for your brothers and sisters in Christ, for those beaten and
bruised by life who have fallen to the side of the road. Be a modern day Good Samaritan. “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in. I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me…I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did it for me.” (Matthew 25:35, 36, 40) To God be the Glory!

 FYI:  The photo of the nest with eggs was taken prior to the addition of feathers. Bluebirds typically lay eggs that are light blue in color. Only four to five percent lay white eggs. One of God’s cool little gifts for a Crazy Bird Lady!

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