One of the things that I have been able to enjoy a little bit more lately is watching birds in my backyard. I have planted flowers that attract birds, butterflies, and bees. We also have a hummingbird feeder, fountain, birdbath, and a seed birdfeeder. Our backyard can have a lot of “wildlife” sometimes. Watching the birds hang around our yard can lift me up and calms my soul. Lately when I am out bird watching I think of the hymn “His Eye is on the Sparrow”
“Why should I feel discouraged?
Why should the shadows come?
Why should my heart be lonely
and long for heaven and home?
When Jesus is my portion?
My constant friend is he;
His eye is on the sparrow,
and I know he watches me.”
I decided to look up some history about this popular hymn and I would like to share it with you. It was written by Civilla Marten in 1905. It was inspired by friends of hers and her husband, Mr. & Mrs. Doolittle who had been bedridden for over twenty years. This couple brought inspiration and comfort to those who knew them and when asked they said that the secret of hopefulness was found in knowing “His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me”.
Matthew 10:29-31
29 Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. 30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
The faith of this bedridden couple inspired her to write the poem and she mailed it to a famous composer of gospel tunes, Charles Gabriel, who wrote the tune and the rest, as they say, is history.
Just singing this tune in my head and heart cheers me up. Knowing that God walks with me during this time and is there to hear my complaining, my frustration and is there to lean on helps me to work through my complaining and see the blessings that we have all around us. The sunshine, cool breezes, flowers, birds, friends, and family. Knowing that God cares for sparrows and cares even more for us makes me feel better.
Jesus asks us to live a life of faith that inspires. How are you inspiring others?
Gracious and Loving God, thank you for surrounding us with your love and care. Help us to know in our hearts and minds that you are with us, that you will see us through these difficult times. Help us have the courage to inspire others by our thoughts, words, and deeds. Give strength to those who are working so hard on the front lines and to those whose are helping by staying home. Amen
Stay safe and keep connected.
God Bless, Suzanne