Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?   Matthew 6:26

Shortly after moving in, our new neighbors put several bird feeders on a tree at the edge of their yard. I can see the tree clearly from my bedroom window.  At dawn each day, birds of all sizes and colors flock to the feeders. They frantically flap their wings, each one seeking a perch that allows it to reach the food. Although our neighbors supply abundant food, the birds vigorously push each other out of the way to get to the bounty.  As I lie in bed and observe this daily ritual, the words of Jesus come to mind. “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.” At the same time, I remember that God’s hand also provides our food. I am grateful to live in a country with an abundance of food, but others live where food is scarce.

God is indeed the great provider and has given us food sufficient for all. The birds follow their instincts and push one another aside, but we who follow Jesus Christ can choose to share what God has given us.

Giver of all good gifts, give us compassion and generosity toward the hungry and homeless in our world. Amen.