February 17, 2025 Migrating Birds
February 17, 2025
Migrating Birds
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Each spring and fall, North American skies fill with millions of birds in one of nature’s most spectacular shows: bird migration. Birds navigate the skies, traveling thousands of miles, instinctively following paths they’ve not traveled before. The skyways are generalized pathways, not necessarily rigid or narrowly defined routes, nor are they traveled by all migrating birds. Sometimes storms push them off course, but their navigation senses help them to find their way to the same location each year.
We have all seen birds flying south for the winter at some point in our life. While many of the birds seen in skyways may not have made the journey before, they know the way because of the instincts given to them by God. It is always fascinating to watch the birds move as one, adjusting to the wind and shifting formation when needed. Even when the storms seem to blow them off course, they find their way back because they trust the path set before them.
Life can sometimes feel like a journey without a map. We make plans, but then unexpected storms come in the form of setbacks, disappointments, and changes we didn’t anticipate. Like migrating birds, we may feel we’re veering off course at times. Even when life’s path takes unexpected turns, God gently redirects us toward the destination.
Reflection:
- Have you ever felt like your life was on a particular path that took an unexpected turn?
- How did you navigate the turn?
- Did you trust that God was guiding you, even when the way seemed unclear? Or did you try to chart your own path?
Prayer: God, when life feels uncertain, help me to trust in your grace and guidance. Even when I don’t see the full path ahead, I know you are guiding me. Amen.
Grace & Peace,
Pastor Kellie