Learning from My Feathered Guests
“Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap;
which neither have storehouse nor barn;
and God feedeth them:
how much more are ye better than the fowls?”
Luke 12:24
Birds make super house guests. I cherish the sweet joy they bring to my garden courtyard. They’re so adorable to watch. They have noticeable routines and cute personalities. They get along pretty well with each other, and cause little trouble. These feathered friends provide loads of fun and steady entertainment. I love that we share the same wonderful Creator and that He provides for us just like he does for them. They, too, have to work to build their nests, gather the food God provided, care for their families and protect themselves from weather and predators.
Don’t tell anybody, but I have to admit, I probably enjoy hosting birds better than some people. Birds are so easy-going, gracious and grateful. They aren’t demanding or picky. If I run out of food and can’t provide for them for a while, they don’t complain, throw a fit, or leave and forget me. As soon as I’m restocked and able to serve them again, they happily return to visit at my galvanized feeders.
I’ve also learned a few things from these feathered guests. They live pretty simple lives and have taught me to slow down, take in the beauty of creation, and how to be a gracious guest. As I’ve watched these feathered wonders in my garden, I have seen that the reason they make such great guests is because they:
- Come when invited
- Show up for dinner on time
- Eat what’s put in front of them
- Mind their manners
- Make room for others at the table
- Leave food for other guests
- Have well-mannered young ones
- Don’t bring unexpected guests
- Show gratitude in simple ways
- Don’t monopolize the bird bath
- Save cold water in the bird bath for others
- Keep the guest quarters pretty tidy
- Don’t bring drama
- Sing beautifully for their supper
- And, don’t overstay their welcome.
I literally think, if there were dishes to do, my bird friends would help with the cleanup if they would could. Their behaviors make having them over for dinner so enjoyable. I look forward to each of their visits and they are welcome in my yard anytime.
The learning never stops as I watch my feathered friends come and go. They are colorful, full of energy and interesting to be around. It’s seems that’s how we should all be. Good guests encourage the hospitable spirit in us. They make us happy to prepare and serve them.
It is my hope that I will always strive to be a gracious and well-mannered guest. I want to be one, who not only appreciates God’s provisions, but shows my hosts gratitude for their hospitality and reciprocates the kindness while bringing joy to the table.
BRINGING IT HOME
Do you feed and observe the birds in your personal garden or yard space?
Have you learned anything from watching and studying their behaviors?
If not, have you entertained the idea of setting up a bird feeder and bird bath?
Give it a try and let me know how it goes for you.
Growing With You,
Smiles, BRC