A remarkable little event unfolded late this spring and early summer right on the front door of Union Christian Church. A diligent mama bird chose one of the wreaths on the front door as the perfect spot to build her nest. Soon, tiny eggs appeared, delicately cradled in the nest she had so lovingly prepared. The eggs appeared only days before VBS, and we all worried that they would not make it with so many people coming and going in and out of the front door that week.
Yet, as the eggs hatched into chirping baby birds the following week, our congregation faced another significant challenge. Our front door, a portal of welcome and community, now served as a sanctuary for these baby birds. You continued to adapt quietly and thoughtfully, ensuring our comings and goings did not disturb the new family on our doorstep. You worked hard to approach the door gently, aware of the fragile baby birds sheltering in the wreath.
Watching all of this unfold reminded me that just as God’s eyes are on the tiny baby birds in that nest, God’s eyes are also on each one of us. Indeed, the same God who watches over the sparrows is attentive to all the struggles and joys in our daily lives. God values each of us more than we can ever comprehend. Additionally, while we moved with great care to protect the baby birds, God, even more so, moves through our lives with gentleness and grace, protecting and guiding us with his loving hand. God's love and tender care invites us to a deeper trust and faith in the One whose eye is on the sparrow!
As your pastor, I was also grateful to see how you worked toward protecting these little birdies as you entered and exited the church doors. It made me thankful to be part of a church that seeks to care for God's creation with love and respect. As I continued to walk in and out of the front door, I prayed quietly, “God, thank you that Union is working together to welcome baby birds so well! Please use us even more to welcome people who need a place to grow and develop in Christ!”
As we continue to walk through the doors of Union Christian Church, let us remember the lesson of the mama bird and babies: In God’s kingdom, no creature is too small, no person is insignificant, and no act of welcome is ever wasted. Thanks be to God, for the birds and for the good people of Union Christian Church! Amen!
