Tues., Jan. 25/22
Every other day I clean out our cat’s litter box. She is never around when I do this. Often she’s sound asleep!
I wonder if our cat ever ponders where her litter goes every second day? Does she reason out the smallness of her litter box contrasted with the greatness over time of her daily deposits? Does she, being aware of the impenetrable plastic box floor her claws scratch upon, realize the limits of this depository? Does she figure that the one who feeds her and scratches her neck is also the one who mops up her fur balls, buys her toys, and must venture out to stock her stores of cat treats?
I doubt it.
Why? Because I take a lesson from the birds.
A bird doesn’t think of such things… Jesus once drew attention to this. He said, “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.” (Matt. 6:26). Birds just know their environmental needs will be met. They know Someone is looking out for them.
Likewise, a flower doesn’t think about looking beautiful to attract pollinators. Nope! It just knows that it’s beautiful already. It knows it’s Maker never makes junk! He even said, “Not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these!” (Matt. 6:29).
When God discoursed with Job He asked, “Do you know when the mountain goats give birth?… when the doe bears her fawn?” (Job 39:1)… “Who let the wild donkey go free?” (v.5)… “Will the wild ox… serve you?” (v.9)… He asks if Job can explain the curious behavior of the ostrich or the stork, the strength of the horse, the soaring flight of the hawk and eagle (v.13-27). But no, Job cannot. Job realizes anew that God can, and God does. God has purposes and ways we do not understand, and He is vitally involved in His creation,. He is actively seeing to its every need — including yours!
I won’t say God wants us to take Him for granted, but I will say He would like us to trust Him more… and I’m no better at it than you some days. And whether or not our cat ever realizes or appreciates the care I give her, I know I won’t stop providing it. Sometimes my care involves a painful trip to the vet, or saying no to her begging for more treats. But I know I’m looking out for her just as God is looking out for me. How do I know? A little bird told me.
Press on…
Pressing on... 