Shannon’s SCW Blog

My writing desk overlooks beautiful rolling hills and towering pine trees, which is a lovely sight to behold.  But over the past two days, God’s given me a special gift outside my window.  Although it’s been pouring rain, a huge family of brilliant red cardinals has been frolicking in my front yard, pecking at the pine cones and chirping as if spring has already sprung.  I’ve counted at least 20 at one time.  When we open the front door they scatter, filling the sky with what looks like tiny red Christmas ornaments flying around magically.  Within minutes, however, they always return to my yard to entertain me at my desk once again.

In case you didn’t know this about me, I’ve always considered the sight of a cardinal as God’s way of assuring me that He’s ever-present and in control.  Their bright red feathers reminds me that the bright red blood that Jesus shed is sufficient to cure whatever ails me, and that if God cares for even these tiny, frail creatures, surely He’ll continue caring for me.

This gift of a whole yard full of cardinals comes at a much-needed time in my history.  In 10 days, my almost-18-year-old daughter flies to Australia to study visual arts at a Christian college for the next 10 months.  We’ve known about this plan for 18 months, so it’s not like it’s sneaking up on us.  I’m truly excited for her as she fulfills this dream.  But I confess that the idea of not having my baby girl here beneath my own wing is a thought that has brought many tears lately.  I know all baby birds need to fly from the nest someday, and she’s definitely strong enough to soar.  But I know this Mama Bird’s going to feel the loss something terrible.

So when you read this, would you please pray that Jesus would continue sending  signs to remind me He’s in control?  Reminding me that He hasn’t just got His eye on the sparrow, but also on the cardinal, and on my own baby bird, Erin, as she flies to the other side of the world?

Many thanks,

Shannon

P.S.  Special thanks to one of my BLAST participants, Holly, for sending the following video clip about this exact season that I’m going through.  Moms of children all ages, you’ll enjoy this immensely!