Silver Wings
You will be like the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold. Psalm 68:13 (NKJV)
Every now and then we all need a sign from God that He is still with us. It’s not that we do not have enough faith, we need encouragement! So, He speaks quietly to our hearts using kind words, gentle hugs, music, and yes, even nature to let us know He is present. Kathleen R. Ruckman (All God’s Creatures) shares openly about how God got her attention.
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When my husband, Tom, retired, we moved to another town, leaving all we had known for more than forty years. We left a large home with a spacious yard and settled into a small townhome with a tiny courtyard. A window in my dining area became my “window of inspiration,” where birds of various species visited the tall juniper tree behind the fence along the courtyard. There, on the other side of this glorious window, the Lord sent doves to visit me when I needed them most.
Mourning doves are native to Oregon. Their smooth fawn color is almost angelic, and their underside has a slightly pink hue. The single black spot behind and below each eye, black spots on its wings, and white edges on the long, tapered tail make this species unmistakable. Its name comes from it mournful, yet soothing, coo.
One morning last year, the sorrowful cooing I heard matched my spirit. I had just received news of the loss of a precious loved one, and I found it impossible to get a last-minute flight across the country. My broken heart stayed in prayer for my faraway family. In tears, I finally had to accept I could be with them only in spirit.
I lifted the blinds on my inspiration window, and within a few minutes two mourning doves flew onto the fence by the bird feeder. They had often visited, but this morning, they lingered longer than usual. I found comfort knowing the Bible reminds me what a dove represents: the Holy Spirit (Luke 3:22) and that this bird, created by God, was an emblem of peace and hope to a hurting world.
In times of sorrow, I can trust Jesus—Man of sorrows, (Isaiah 53:3) and Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). He understands the paradox and helps me take flight into His arms, where I find peace and rest.
Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest. Psalm 55:6
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Presence. While we may not see or hear You, You provide reminders for us. You are never far away. Help us to seek Your Face more often. AMEN