In this week following Easter Sunday where we marked “Bright Monday” yesterday with a reflection on new life, today let’s look and listen for the birds of spring.
Perhaps, like me, you were struck by the fact, shared in the news in recent weeks, that in Wuhan, the province in China where the outbreak of Coronavirus began, it has been reported that the sound of bird song has been more audible and noticeable during their lockdown.
Rebecca Arendall Franks, currently quarantined in Wuhan, shared her joy at being able to hear birdsong in Wuhan for the first time: ‘Right now I hear birds outside my window. I now know they were just muted and crowded out by the traffic and people. All day long now I hear birds singing. It stops me in my tracks to hear the sound of their wings and I am thankful.’
The bible has many references to birds in both the Old and New Testaments. The size and beauty of birds is cited to describe God’s detailed creation but birds like the Eagle are also used as metaphors for God’s own strength and power. Our reading this morning is about Sparrows and Swallows: Psalms 84 v 1 -3 and in these Bible verses, the reader is informed that God is observant of all His Creations. We are reminded too that, in God’s eyes, humanity is more valuable than all animals, including sparrows and swallows. However, the Bible makes readers aware of the idea that because of His love, all creatures have a home and a purpose. Whereas the sparrow represents the idea of the omnipresent and all-knowing God, the swallow symbolizes the resurrection of Jesus Christ because every spring, it reappears. Imagine that, each and every type of bird has a symbolism and story to teach us! I wonder too, if each and every bird you see or hear today might be just for you and have something to teach you in this Easter season. Open your eyes and your ears this bright new day and be ready to learn from the birds.
Today’s Prayer
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful,
The Lord God made them all.
Each little flower that opens,
Each little bird that sings,
He made their glowing colours,
He made their tiny wings.
He gave us eyes to see them,
And lips that we might tell,
How great is God Almighty,
Who has made all things well.
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful,
The Lord God made them all. Amen
