The sun was out in full force today luring me outdoors for some much-needed exercise. The mixture of fresh air, sun, and movement really does a body and soul good! The bright blue sky and the strong sunrays would’ve been gift enough for me, but I guess He knew I needed an extra boost.
I love to watch any birds that are about when I’m walking. There hasn’t been much variety this winter. I’ve noticed there seem to be a lot more crows hanging around. But today there was one particular large brown bird that caught my eye as it circled high above the pines. As usual, I automatically began to discern in my mind as to whether this was a Turkey Vulture or a Hawk–as is often the case. The Turkey Vulture has a distinctive, somewhat tipsy flight with upturned wing tips, and where there is one vulture there are often more. But today there was just the one and the flight was smooth; no upturned wings. However, it also seemed rather large for a hawk.
It continued to glide in a wide circle, and as it curved around and flew in my direction, the late afternoon sunlight revealed a white head that could only be that of the American Bald Eagle. This is actually the second Bald Eagle that we’ve seen flying high above near our home. We live near a river where these birds often nest. They sure have made a comeback after years of being on the endangered species list. Last summer while kayaking down a river near my parents’ home in IL, we were priviledged to see one perched on an overhanging branch. They are such regal birds and somehow they touch the human heart and seem to bring courage and inspiration.
I guess Isaiah felt the same way when he penned these words that have brought comfort, hope, and encouragement to me many times. I think God knew I needed a fresh reminder of these words today. Perhaps He knew you would too!
Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary. And the young men shall utterly fall, but those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. ~Isaiah 40:28-31







