Consider The Ravens And The Lilies

Luke 12:22a,24,27,28b – Then Jesus said to his disciples: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. How much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith!" (NIV)

Although Jesus warns us in the verses following today's Scripture not to become like the unbelievers, constantly preoccupied with the material things of this world, yet at times of uncertainty, I find myself struggling with feelings of anxiety and fear. After meditating on Jesus' words in this passage, I am amazed at the lessons to be learned from God's creation, and I am greatly comforted by the illustrations in nature that reveal God's divine wisdom and providence to supply all that we need.

Jesus uses the example of ravens, birds said in Leviticus 11:15 to be unclean and of no worth, yet our heavenly Father provides and cares for them. He has uniquely equipped birds of all kinds with skills to find and secure their food. We often hear and enjoy their lovely songs of praise to their Creator. How much more valuable we are than birds! Jesus also tells us to take time to consider the lilies of the field. God has clothed them with a beauty and splendour that not even Solomon could boast of, yet we are of much more value. As Christians, we, too, have been clothed in splendour through the righteousness of Christ, our Lily of the Valley. If God takes so much care to clothe a simple flower with His intricate, marvellous design, how much more will He care for us who are His children created in His own image!

How can we learn to trust God more? I believe the Psalms can offer some helpful insight:

Psalm 84:3 – Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young — a place near your altar, O Lord Almighty, my King and my God. (NIV)

As the Psalmist expresses his intense desire for the living God, the sparrow and the swallow are already at rest near His altar! Let us also stay close to the presence of God, keeping our hearts and minds focused on the eternal things from above.

Prayer: Father, we thank You for Your great power and perfect love displayed throughout all Your creation. Fill our hearts and minds with your Spirit, that we may rest in Your presence. Amen.

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