This photo is a good representation of the feeder that stands next to our deck. Keeping seed filled to the brim is a weekly chore as our visitors have grown accustomed to dining to their heart’s content. We get a small variety of birds that perch on the cylinder….sparrows, wrens, chickadees, cardinals, woodpeckers, , blue jays,  juncos….I’m always intrigued by their antics as they jockey for position…flying to and fro from the feeder to surrounding trees in our yard and the neighbor’s, too, along the property line. They come on days of extreme cold as well as milder mornings bathed in sunshine or rain. Hungry appetites and empty bellies need filling.

So it is with me, too. When I wake each morning I have a longing in my spirit to grab my first mug of hot coffee, make my way to a favorite comfortable chair and open God’s Word to begin “dining”–or as I prefer to say–”feasting” on a portion of scripture to fill me and equip me for the day ahead. I never lack for a place to begin reading….using a devotional draws me to verses that most often “fit” with concerns lingering in my mind and heart. Faithfully, God always seems to “fill” my spiritual plate with exactly what I need…never floundering or hovering in a flurry of emotions trying to navigate my “spot” with Him. 

Watching the birds that visit our feeder offers me so many lessons. This past week as I caught glimpses of their activity, jockeying for position to feed, almost competing for a place on one of the several perches, I saw little creatures who have a common goal–get to the seed!  Also, I didn’t see any conflict or fighting. When a perch became available “someone” soon took a seat. Others, less fortunate to be on a perch, happily ate from the seed that had dropped to the ground. In their own way, each small bird found a way to eat and be satisfied.

Part of joy as a Christ follower is being part of a community that is welcoming and supportive through all of life’s challenges. I’m happy to be in such a body of people–my church family–especially men and women who are participating in daily devotionals offered through an app we have downloaded to our phones. The devotional is my own “feeder” and the numerous authors of a broad range of topics have provided endless opportunities for reading, studying, and reflecting on scripture. Like the various birds in our yard, my friends who are participating with me in these daily readings are a beautiful potpourri of personalities….each has his or her perspective on scripture and willingness to share honestly from their hearts how God speaks and inspires them….

I love how the simplicity and order in our little friends at our feeder does more than provide entertainment for me…indeed, they offer me deeper appreciation and understanding of God’s creation…giving me a glimpse of how “things” can and should work….when I do my part: show up…expect….be diligent and hungry….feast at the table He has prepared for me….dine with others who don’t have to jockey position at His table….because at HIS table there is ample room.

And, no one has to eat crumbs from the floor….