HIS Eye Is On The Sparrow

His Eye is on the Sparrow

On Labor Day, Malia, the kids and I took a short road trip out to Herbie and Nancy Burnette’s home in Ball Ground. We have been trying to get up there for the past few months and finally had time on Monday. Herbie wanted me to come up and see his garden because I would like to plant a small one in my backyard next spring. After getting okra, cucumbers and tomatoes all summer, I wanted to see where they came from. What a great time we had there just relaxing outside, the kids running around, and the great fellowship. As we were talking, Herbie and I discussed the many bird feeders he has on his property. From simple feeders to the more elaborate feeders, Herbie is doing his part in helping to feed all the birds that come his way. The feeders that I have always loved watching are the hummingbird feeders. I’m not sure, but there are probably 4-5 hummingbird feeders on the Burnette’s front porch. After we loaded the kids in the car and turned on a movie for them, the four adults talked a little longer outside. While we were talking, I got to do what I enjoy very much. I was able to watch a number of hummingbirds come and feed. What a beautiful bird! God did an amazing thing with that creature.
The thought of those birds reminds me of Matthew 6:25-34. This passage is in the greatest sermon ever preached, the Sermon on the Mount. Opinions differ on whether this sermon is a summary of what Jesus taught on one occasion or a compilation of teaching presented on numerous occasions. Whatever the case, the Sermon on the Mount is in effect King Jesus’ inaugural address, explaining what he expects of members of His Kingdom. The standards proposed in this sermon are in no way possible on our own, but only possible through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. The passage that sticks out to me this week concerns the provisions God makes for our daily living. Jesus tells us to “look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. (Matthew 6:26)” As the hummingbirds were feeding, were they concerned about where their next meal was coming from or where they were going to sleep that night? Absolutely not! They know very well that the creator of the universe is concerned enough about them that they do not need to worry about anything. God will provide for their needs. “Are you not much more valuable than they? (Matt. 6:26b)” Jesus is pointing out that if God is concerned about the tiny sparrow, then He is even more concerned about you. “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. (Matt. 6:24)”

Why should I feel discouraged?
Why should the shadows come?
Why should my heart feel lonely
And long for heaven and home?

When Jesus is my portion
A constant friend is He
His eye is on the sparrow
And I know He watches over me.

From a peaceful, worry resistant heart,
Aaron Hodges