“Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” Matthew 6:26,27
Photo Credit to my dad, Michael Beebe
For quite some time, my favorite animal has been The Bald Eagle. I cannot think of a bird that soars across the sky with more power and elegance. Even when perched on a tree, the bird commands the attention of both the inspired sightseers and the animals sharing the same habitat.
Near the beautiful town of Decorah, Iowa, there is a special Bald Eagle nest. Unlike most nests, this nest is streamed online 24/7 by a camera placed next to the nest. Regionally, this is a popular conversation piece in classrooms and among people that enjoy nature, like myself.
Viewers see every aspect of the eagles’ lives. As the mother keeps her eggs and eaglets warm from the cold Iowa winter and protects them from predators, dad is out catching fish for the family. Suddenly, the father swoops into the nest with dinner, and mom takes off to gather more sticks for their giant nest. This cycle continues day and night as the parents work to provide for their young and themselves. Fascinating!
As I watch this family’s life on my computer screen, I can’t help but be in awe of God’s creation. I am amazed by the instincts given to Bald Eagles, like all animals, to fight, work, and sacrifice to survive each day. There is one thing, however, that captivates me more.
God provides for them.
Matthew 6:26, 27 encourages us to learn something from these eagles. Each day, using their God-given instinct, they fly, hunt, dive, and receive the necessities of life. They are not restless at night, worried about the work for the next day, where their next fish will come from, or how they are going to improve their nest. Nor do they worry about saving some food for later. Rather, they live in the moment and rely on the provision described in Matthew 6.
Throughout the Bible, we read that humankind is a special part of God’s creation. From the start, we have been given authority over other created things. God has given us a soul, gives us grace each day, and salvation that none of us deserve. Here in Matthew 6, Jesus asks us, “Are you not of more value than they?”
This is something that I need to remind myself of daily as I am in this season of preparation and support raising for The World Race. Often it seems like there are not enough hours in the day to work, spend time with family, prepare for The World Race, sleep, hang out with friends, and focus on God and His Word. Yet, when approached with prayer and an open heart, time appears in abundance. It never fails.
To fund this ministry, I am partnering with people that share my desire to share Christ’s love with the nations. So far, God has used generous gifts from several people to provide over $3,600. I am excited to see how God will continue to show up in great ways as this ministry moves closer to becoming fully funded. Through times of discouragement, I remember that God’s economy is perfect. I am confident that this experience is something that God has led me to, and I know that He will provide in great ways.
Fun World Race Fact: Over 1,300 Racers have started the World Race – only 5 have not been able to complete the Race due to financial factors.
What areas of your life can you trade worries for trust in God’s provision?
