written by Rev Gary Heard

An article in National Geographic several years ago provided a penetrating picture of God's wings. After a forest fire in Yellowstone National Park, forest rangers began their trek up a mountain to assess the inferno's damage. One ranger found a bird literally petrified in ashes, perched statuesquely on the ground at the base of a tree. Somewhat sickened by the eerie sight, he knocked over the bird with a stick. When he struck it, three tiny chicks scurried from under their dead mother's wings. The loving mother, keenly aware of impending disaster, had carried her offspring to the base of the tree and had gathered them under her wings, instinctively knowing that the toxic smoke would rise.

She could have flown to safety but had refused to abandon her babies. When the blaze had arrived and the heat had scorched her small body, the mother had remained steadfast. Because she had been willing to die, those under the cover of her wings would live.

It is a haunting and powerful reminder of God, of whom the Psalmist says "He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge..." (Psalm 91:4)

A God who loves so much that he is prepared to lay down his life to protect his children... Doesn't such an image make an impact on you?

Being loved this much should make a difference in our lives. Remember the One who loves you and then, be different because of it.