Hope of Things to Come

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”  Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)

After what seems to be one of the longest and snowiest winters in years, I awoke early last Friday morning to a remarkable sight.  I struggled the past few months with doubt of self worth and the BIG question as to what is my purpose on Earth.  Like so many others over the past year hit by a downturned economy, for the first time in my life I found myself unemployed and not able to contribute to my family in the same financial way I have contributed in the past 30 years.  I struggled with questions as to WHY (me) and HOW (long) this would affect me, my family and our future.   After seven months with these burdens on my heart and mind, last Friday I was especially needful of God’s direction and “a sign” from Him on how best to respond to a long awaited job offer. 

I believe everyone at some point in their life, and most likely a difficult point, may say, “Please God show me a sign.”  It was in this mindset last Friday morning I drew opened the curtains to the deck and in the back yard was a migration of Robins.  It was an overwhelming sight to behold.  The ground was covered thick with several accumulations of snow and the tree branches were covered in what the Weatherman on T.V. called “ice frost.”  I caught my heart racing and mind soaring at the sheer beauty of what looked like hundreds of red-breasted birds against the icy blue landscape.  I was full of questions and yet at the same time filled with wonder.  WHY in the middle of a very cold February morning had God chosen my backyard, from of all the other yards in the neighborhood, as a sanctuary for His “messengers of spring” to congregate?  It was then and there I felt God’s presence very near.  For me this small bird signaled a time for personal renewal and a course for better things ahead.  My spirits were lifted by the beautiful backyard spectacle and a verse from one of my favorite gospel hymns was brought to mind: 

… why should I feel discouraged, why should the shadows come
why should my heart feel lonely, and long for heaven and home
when Jesus is my portion, a constant friend is He, His eye is on the sparrow
and I know He watches over me… *(Note below)

The sight of the Robins out in the snow huddled closely together against the elements, reminded me how God watches over even the smallest of creatures in the worst of times.  It is through God’s watchful hand that we can be assured Christ is our source for hope and wisdom of better things ahead.  I believe God often uses the tiniest signs to speak to us in the loudest voice.  It is at a time of surrender to God’s Word we find refuge from the troubles of world and at that instance we realize our purpose and our hope for the future. 

Prayer:  Dear Lord, each day as we face both good and evil in this world may we still rejoice in all things.  May we be more aware of Your never-ending care and concern for all creatures, even the small ones like the sparrow or robin.  Help each of us to better serve You as Your dedicated messengers when we deliver Your message of hope and better things to come both here on Earth and in Heaven.  For it is Your plan in our lives that we remain resilient and able to committed to spreading the message of salvation. Thank you, Jesus and in Your name we pray, Amen

* (Note):  “His Eye is On the Sparrow, “ (1905), Mrs. C. D. Martin and Chas. H. Gabriel

Jane Potee