Do You Hear the Mockingbird?
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)
Life says we’ve all had days where everything we touch turns to muck. We become anxiety bound, drop things, say the wrong words, get behind in what we are doing and can’t seem to catch up. Those are the days we would like to crawl back into bed and pull the covers up over our head. Of course, that is not generally an option, but we wish it was. Lucy H. Chambers (All God’s Creatures) shares her story of just such a day.
*****
All day long, nothing had gone my way. I couldn’t stop worrying about what would happen if I didn’t get my project done. I hurried home to let my black lab, Ruby, out of her kennel. I would let her out for a little and then hop back on my computer to squeeze in more work before dinner.
“Ruby,” I called, and I heard her thick tail wagging. She was glad to see me, nonjudgemental about my agitation. We went into the backyard, and I promised her when I finished the project, we’d go on a long walk.
She poked around the yard, and I ran over scenarios for the project. Lost in thought, I was startled when Ruby came and sat next to me. She leaned against my leg and looked intently up at the sky.
“What is it?” I asked. Ignoring me, she continued to look up. I followed her gaze. A mockingbird sat on the wire, singing its heart out. Ruby was mesmerized. She continued to watch it intently as it gave us a full-throated concert.
We sat there in solidarity, appreciating the varied songs of the mocking bird. I thanked Ruby. If she hadn’t made me look up, I would have remained stuck in my cycle of worry. As I rubbed her head, I realized that the project would get done. It would be as good as it needed to be. But if I didn’t take time to pay attention to the everyday wonders around me, I would never find peace. I took a deep breath and asked God to help me be more like Ruby, a faithful creature who focuses on what is before her, instead of wasting her time trying to do His job.
When peace like a river attendeth my way, and sorrows like sea billows roll; whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, “It is well, it is well with my soul.” —Horatio Gates Spafford
Loving Lord, thank You for slowing us down to observe the beauty around us. Please help us to remember who is in charge. AMEN.