Red Bird Rising

Walking through a wooded trail with distant views of marshy green grass and clear blue water, I was treated to an unexpected gift. It came at a time of resistant faith as it sometimes goes for those of us seeking to walk in the light of God’s love, despite our many imperfections. We amble on each day in search of divine clarity, discouraged when we don’t experience it, when suddenly out of darkness a reminder so obvious emerges that we can’t help but notice the workings of grace right in front of our eyes. It took me years of struggle to realize that deeper faith grows and changes through the various seasons of ordinary life. As our faith evolves we can experience the goodness of God in many unexpected ways—like the beauty of his majestically created world. But sometimes our faith falters and we seek a sign from God that he is still there. It is during these moments that God reaches out in love to assure us of his consistent presence. With eyes of faith we will recognize his generosity of spirit which always wills our happiness.

On the day of my walk, and for many days thereafter, I was treated to a surprise visit from a beautiful red bird soaring high across the cloudless sky. This elegant bird then descended to eye level and flew clear across my walking path before returning to the heavens once again. This noble vision was no mere coincidence, as my mother would remind me of such incidents in my youth. This was an act of divine love from a God who takes all our difficult moments and uses them for good. The truth is that there are times in life when we endure periods of inner struggle; when our souls simply refuse to allow a deep connection with God. At moments like this everything around us feels heavy and our hearts fail to absorb even one prayer uttered in obedience and hope. Moments like this can certainly be a cause of frustration, even sadness but never despair. The challenge is to persevere in faith during the trial, asking God in prayer for clarity on what can be learned through the pain. More often than not, he is working out something beautiful; drawing us closer to himself as only a spouse will do when he reaches out in love to his wounded beloved.

Based on my own life experience as a faith seeking person, God always sends a lifeline at exactly the perfect time. It is not always in the way I expect or want but it comes at the perfect time for my good. So pay attention to the world around you—God is always speaking to us. If you are struggling in faith, be open to that kind word from a friend, read a special scripture verse, open a good book or listen to an inspiring homily at Mass. You might even notice that beautiful red bird rising in flight against the summer sun—in all these things you will see the hand of God gently pushing your onward in your journey toward the light of truth.

(A few Summer Memories)