“All the people responded with a great shout when they praised the Lord because the foundation of the house of the Lord had been laid.”  Ezra 3:11

“No one can lay any foundation other than the one that has been laid; that foundation is Jesus Christ.”  1 Corinthians 3:11

We are backyard bird people.  We enjoy watching birds at the feeders, and the process of building nests.  They carry twigs, string, feathers, all kinds of items they will wattle together to build an amazingly solid home.  Some return to the same nest to raise a second or even a third brood; some will return the next year and find the same nest still intact   Also the next Spring, amazingly those new, first-year, now adult birds will know just what do to repeat the process:  build a solid home, nurture the young, and send them off!

God provides the necessary “materials” to build a firm nesting place for us, his fledglings – supportive family and friends, elders and teachers, Scripture, the prayers we sing … and ever in our hearts, the Holy Spirit.  However, when the time comes to spread our wings, we are not left to fend for ourselves.  God’s church is made of individuals woven together with love for God and compassion for one another.   When we fall or inadvertently scatter, when we feel vulnerable and alone, as a hen gathers her chicks a caring community gathers us back in.

Omnipotent, loving God – Kindle in us curiosity and wonder at the earth that surrounds us, the creatures of sky, land and sea.  Move us to care for and preserve the gifts of nature that sustain us, and constantly amaze us.  In Jesus name we pray.  Amen

Verla Olson

Ministries
Teaching Mission Party