Feeding the Birds and Turning the Other Cheek

“Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them.” Matthew 6:26-34 

God provides the seeds, but he doesn’t throw them into the bird feeder. I do, and it is a challenge sometimes.

I understand this is an option. The birds certainly get along fine without my putting food in a feeder, but I love seeing all the different species. The most prevalent are the house finches and a few golden finches. Quail and dove comb the ground for the spilled seed. A barn swallow stopped by, but didn’t stay. He must have come to investigate all the commotion.

The pesky squirrels chase everyone off, and the dove aren’t gentle as the old adage claims. They are bullies too. The finches will squabble if too many gather. I’ve seen flurries of wings I assume were actual fights. I’ve yet to see any of them turn the other cheek.

This week I learned the history behind that scripture. According to Jewish protocol, it was customary for a master to discipline a servant by striking them on the right cheek with the back of their right hand. If the servant turned his left cheek, the master was physically unable to strike servant’s left cheek with the back of his right hand, a sign the master was powerless. Even if he struck the servant again, his authority was diminished. In essence, Jesus promoted non-violent protest.  

Vengeance belongs to God, but we don’t have to submit to injustices.

This brings me back to the birds. Does God view us in the same way? He provides, and we squabble over his provision. Yet, he still loves us and keeps calling us to turn away from our bickering.

Thank you, Lord, for not giving up on us. Amen.