Let’s Consider the Birds

Look to the winged ones who soar on the wind. Do they plant seeds and gather the harvest into a storehouse? No! But your Father from above gives them plenty to eat. Do you not know he cares even more for you?

—Matthew 6:26-27, First Nations Version

Tucked into Jesus’s longest and arguably most important series of teachings known as the “sermon on the mount,” Jesus drew attention to the birds. He had been teaching his students about another way to relate to themselves, their neighbors & their resources.

The birds appear out of nowhere as a counter image to the worrisome way we tend to move through the world. I can’t help but wonder, though, if birds have more to teach us than what it means to be carefree. They are not just featured in Jesus’s sermon, but are woven into many stories throughout scripture, as well as into ancient mythology and into our everyday lives.

I’ve been noticing a fascination with birds, lately – and not just among people in their 50s like me. Young and not-so-young, people are becoming increasingly curious and connected to the sights and sounds of our feathered friends. Maybe we are seeking solace or finally realizing that their demise is also ours. Maybe it’s a result of the return to nature sparked by a pandemic. Whatever the cause, it seems we are naturally noticing the birds - some are colorful, others loud, exotic, squawky, or tiny. Some migrate while others stay through all seasons. Some mate for life, others not so much.

This summer, we’re tuning in to a variety of birds and letting them be our guides. How might they help us to see ourselves, the world & each other in new ways? What might they teach us through their vulnerable strength, their unique songs, and their struggle to survive? What wisdom do they hold that can help us navigate life’s complexities?  

With Debbie Blue’s book, Consider the Birds, as a companion, we’ll explore some of the birds mentioned in the story of scripture. Feel free to purchase a copy and read along. We’ll also be joined by some local eco-experts along the way who will help us become mindful and protective of our bird neighbors. You can enjoy our playlist for this season here.

For now, join us this Sunday, May 3rd as we begin considering the birds.