Dixie Stirs It Up

Dixie Belle and I had quite an object lesson during our early morning devotional. At least I did. It’s unclear whether my trouble making canine got the memo. But, I should start at the beginning.

I was knee-deep in prayer when Dixie, who’d been sniffing around in the nearby shrubs, trotted out carrying a prize between her teeth. A pair of angry mockingbirds squawking, circling, and dive-bombing at her head told me immediately that Dixie had chosen to have baby bird for breakfast. Intentionally or not, she’d also declared an act of war. Dixie plopped down on the other side of the screen door and began playing with her meal, showing zero regard for her opponents. The fierceness and tenacity of their continued attacks surprised me but I was floored by what happened next. Would you believe several sparrows and a couple cardinals joined ranks with the mockingbird parents? Together they circled the battlefield and raised their furious voices in protest! During the lengthy riot, one mockingbird, whom I had decided was Mama Bird, kept hopping over in front of me. She would stare directly at me from the other side of the screen and squawk repeatedly. “Amazing,” I murmured, “she’s not going to let this thing rest and she wants me to do something about it!” That’s when I had a sobering realization.

This scene had broken out before me just as I was praying for someone I care for deeply, someone who’s living without Jesus, and living so recklessly he could face eternity any moment now. “I get it,” I said quietly. “Father, I refuse to give up on him. I’ll keep interceding while there’s time, and like the example you’ve given me here, I’ll give you no rest.” So, why do I share this with y’all? I can’t get over seeing those different species of birds displaying such community. What a lesson from our feathered friends! Are you troubled over someone you love? Don’t give up and don’t go it alone. Join with others who care and beseech heaven, together.

Hugs,
Shellie