Greenfinches are not a common sight in my garden- every now and again I enjoy their presence. This one spent quite a while filling her beak with plentiful peanuts- and had no idea who provided the feast. In fact, if I showed myself she would have fled the scene despite the food!
It is my pleasure (and joy!) to provide various foods for the birds. Some love the suet/seed balls, or a stuffed coconut shell. Robins and blackbirds are VERY partial to dried mealworms. Sunflower kernels go like hot cakes. Peanuts (chopped small in nesting season so chicks don’t choke) thrill the tit families, finches and pigeons. Am I thanked? No. Or trusted? Not yet. But while I can help feed them, I choose to do so. That’s reward in itself.
One of the most popular and well-known parts of the Bible is the 23rd Psalm. A countryside-related vision of the relationship between a shepherd-king and the Eternal Shepherd, the Lord God Almighty. David found comfort, hope and assurance in acknowledging God’s faithful love in all seasons of life: plenty, rest, struggles, even death. God who is Good provides for the creatures of this world- even though we don’t realise, remember, or give Him any thanks.
Perhaps as we read the psalm, and reflect on a feasting greenfinch, we can find the time and inclination to be thankful…
Psalm 23:1-6 (NLT)
1 The LORD is my shepherd; I have all that I need.
2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.
3 He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honour to his name.
4 Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.
5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honour me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.
6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.
The Reflectionary 