A Sparrow’s Funeral
Matthew 10:29-31
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
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I am an amateur naturalist. In Texas, through my many nature adventures, I learned the names and caricatures of the native bugs, reptiles (yes, even snakes), mammals, flowers, trees, shrubs, and cacti. As a young man, I picked and pressed flowers and collected leaves for field notebooks and composed countless sketches and paintings of animals. Why? The joy, peace, and beauty of nature was like a poem that slowly and quietly unlocked a part of my soul that I didn’t even realize was closed.
Jesus picks up on this attunement to nature that seems to pervade culture and class. He seems to say, ‘do you notice how sparrows are so abundant and prolific. They seem to be of little value in our world. They are even captured and sold for next to nothing, exploited and used for mere pennies. But God cares for them deeply. When one of them comes to the end of their life, hidden under the briars and brambles, taking its last breath, our Father is there with it, present and compassionate. If this is how compassionate and present he is with sparrows, just think how compassionate and present he is in our lives- we are made in his image; we are worth more than many sparrows.’
Life is precious- no matter the size or monetary value we put on it. Because its worth is not given by human scales, but by the love of our Father who declares all of his creation: “very good” - and who declares all of humanity to be made in his image.
Therefore, do not fear. You, yes you there- you are worth more than many sparrows. And if God is attuned to the living and dying of the smallest of birds- attending each of their funerals, just think of how much he loves you.
Announcements:
This Saturday is a Camp Woody work day. The boat leaves at 9am and returns at 5pm. Bring a sack lunch. Beverages are provided. Participants should be middle school age and older. (flyer is attached)
Link to the CBC Calendar
Pastor Steven will be visiting family in Texas from June 22- July 8 (if you need me, call or text - 972-921-2516)
Church Weekly Schedule
Sunday worship at 11am
Wednesday Prayer Posse 12pm
Trail Life each Sunday from 2-3pm
Pastor Steven’s Office Hours 8-4 Mon-Thursday
I have an open sign (if it is on, I am here)
If I am not in the office at these times, I am meeting with someone
Call or text me 972-921-2516
Email steven@kodiakcbc.org
