Taking Flight 

Several years ago, back when my children were school age, I hung a decorative wreath on the wall of our front porch to add a little charm. Made of woodsy material with artificial flowers and leaves, it graced our little space well.

Then suddenly a bird began fussing at us when we used the front door. Yep, our little feathered friend had not only built a nest in the crook of that wreath, partially covered by a large flower, but she had already laid some eggs. 

In order to help Mama Bird, we began using the garage door entrance. But having a glass storm door to the front porch, I was able to watch her come and go. After the babies hatched, I sometimes peeked at the little ones when Mama Bird was away getting food, wondering how long they would be our guests.

One morning I heard Mama Bird chirping loudly and opened the front door just enough to watch as she flew back and forth from her nest to just outside the porch. Back and forth. Over and over with loud chirping. I didn’t dare move, knowing what was about to happen. She was enticing those babies to fly. 

Then suddenly, they took wing and followed. All except one. Oh no! What now? Mama Bird returned and did the same routine over and over, flying back and forth as if to say, “Follow me!” I quietly watched and whispered, “Come on, baby; you can do it,” as the little fledgling balanced on that wreath. Then, like magic, it took flight.

I loved that I got to see such a wonder. It felt like a special gift from God, reminding me that just as he cared for those tiny birds, He would take care of me.

There have been many years and hardships since that incident, and at times life can be both beautiful and broken. But just like that tiny bird, I believe there are moments when the Lord urges all of us to step out of our comfort zone, and not only take flight, but to soar.