If you could select any location to visit today, would it be the endodontist’s office? It certainly wouldn’t be mine, but there I was a few weeks ago. I’d prayed for peace because complications with a back tooth’s root canal made the prior visit less than pleasant.
Although I sensed God’s presence and knew I could trust Him, anxiety perched on my shoulder and accompanied me into the room. I reluctantly settled into the reclining leather chair which faced a huge window with a view of a grassy courtyard.
I took deep breaths and once again asked God to calm me and help the endodontist do well. (I reasoned if she did well, I’d do well.) After the x-rays and numbing shots, I waited alone while the staff cared for patients in adjoining rooms.
More prayer. More deep breaths.
Then I gazed out the picture window because God’s creation usually calms me. I concentrated on the clouds, the trees, and a huge bird feeder suspended from a pole.
My mother was always so brave. She trusted You. Why can’t I simply trust you, God? You are worthy of my trust, and I know You’re with me.
As I prayed, a black-capped chickadee landed on the bird feeder. I watched him through teary eyes and thanked God for the pretty bird—my mother’s favorite species.
A little tufted titmouse soon joined the chickadee. I remembered my dad teaching me how to identify them. God’s providing entertainment while I wait. He knows I’m a fan of nature.
Next, a red cardinal added color to the scene, and then a sweet little brown and white sparrow flitted in to join the party. Oh, heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that You care for the little sparrow—this very one—and you care for me.
As if the visits of these feathered friends weren’t enough, guess which species showed up next. Doves. A pair of doves. They gleaned the seeds that fell on the ground from the activity at the feeder. Father God, how generous You are to send me this symbol of Your peace, a peace that passes all understanding.
I thought about a familiar passage with a command and a promise:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 ESV
When I released the anxiety, God’s peace filled my soul. No more deep breaths and clenched teeth.
His peace surrounded me as I noticed a new party attendee. A squirrel joined the doves for a seed fest under the feeder.
All was well until a party crasher disturbed the peace. A huge orange cat darted into the outdoor dining room and caused quite a ruckus while seeds scattered and birds flew. The squirrel raced up a nearby tree. The bird feeder slowly stopped swaying.
By the time the endodontist re-entered the room, the courtyard was as still as it had been when I entered the room. I felt like the outdoor entertainment with its symbolism was for me alone–at the exact time I needed it.
How often do I miss God’s provision? How often do I ignore His gifts on the table He prepares before me (Psalm 23:5) because I’m too focused on the problem I’m facing or the fear of something unseen?
What I notice easily are signs of spring. Bright green leaf buds on a tree that’s looked dead all winter. The yellow flowers on my forsythia bush. Tiny wildflower blossoms in still-brown grass. More hours of sunlight.
What if we noticed the signs of God’s care like we notice early signs of spring? He will surely help us if we make that request. He can open our physical and spiritual eyes.
What if we noticed the signs of God’s care like we notice early signs of spring? Share on X
As we notice signs of spring, let’s ask God to show us what He wants us to see. We can watch for signs that He cares for us and for others. We can ask the Holy Spirit to guide us toward those who need our help. And most importantly, we can look through the picture window of His Word and ask Him to teach us, to open our eyes so we can see what He wants us to learn.
Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.
Psalm 119:18 ESV
God speaks through His Word. He offers signs of His care, convicts us of sin, gives us wisdom, and provides guidance.
As the earth warms and displays signs of growth, let’s notice signs of God’s love and care and learn lessons from Him as new as baby birds and crocus blossoms.
As the earth warms and displays signs of growth, let’s notice signs of God’s love and care and learn lessons from Him as new as baby birds and crocus blossoms. Share on X
Let me hear from you:
What signs of God’s care and goodness have you noticed lately?
By the way, the endodontist did a great job! 😉
I learned an unexpected lesson while walking in my yard admiring the beauty of spring.
ACHOO! It’s that time of year.
