The Vibrancy of a Cardinal

 

The Vibrancy of a Cardinal

Early one morning I was sitting in my prayer chair having time with God. I was looking out the window, as I often do, and I was blessed to be able to see a male cardinal. I always feel so encouraged when I see a brilliantly colored red cardinal. Cardinals symbolize hope to many people, and I personally feel a special touch from God when I see a cardinal. Here’s why. During my sister's cancer journey, she recounts a beautiful story of seeing a cardinal after praying to the Lord for birds to come to her feeder. She was at a very vulnerable place during her cancer treatments, and she just wanted some birds to refresh her soul. Not only did God provide a bird, but he provided one of the most colorful and majestic birds common to our area, showing her that He was present and attentive during a very difficult time.

In my devotional time this morning, this cardinal was sitting very close to my window and I observed it for a minute or two. As I was appreciating the ruby red feathers, I was also thinking about how it is even more beautiful when it is against a snowy, white backdrop. The contrast of the red and the white really makes the colorful bird stand out. So, even though it has its own natural beauty the contrast makes it even more glorious. God revealed to me as I pondered, that when we shine the light of Jesus in the dark world, the contrast is very beautiful. When I am around people “of the world”, I have a tendency to think I stand out as an oddity. It’s easy to believe that people can’t relate to me at all, or even begin to understand my dedication to the Lord. However, as I was contemplating contrasts, I gained a new perspective that walking in the light shows the beauty of Christ within me and it really makes me stand out as attractive instead of peculiar. The contrast is what creates the beauty. What an interesting concept and revelation for me, and I hope for you too.

Is there something you can identify within yourself that makes you stand out as a Christ follower? What is the contrast of the light in you against the dark world? What measurable steps can you take to shine the light of Jesus better to those around you? 

Ephesians 5: 8-9 For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. (NLT) 

Precious Jesus, you exemplified light in the purest form as you walked this earth. Thank you for also giving me the ability to walk in that light of truth and goodness. Give me courage to let that light shine forth in all its brilliance.

Jesus, you are light and truth to me and I sit with you in sacred stillness. I receive light into my spirit so that I may radiate beauty.