This week, a young hawk fell out of one of the large fir trees at church. Still white and fluffy, he's uninjured but not yet ready to fly. His mother is nearby - agitated, protective and loud as she swoops in to scare off those who venture too close.
"Put him back up in the tree," recommended the local raptor experts, "and his mother will take care of the rest."
This was easier said than done -- but with a ladder, a box, some long potholders snagged from the church kitchen, a helpful church secretary and some screeching on the part of both myself and the baby bird, we were able to get the tyke into the lowest branches of the tree. The next day and the next, despite blistering heat and a blustery thunderstorm, there he sat in the same spot while his helpless mother fretted nearby. Today, however, he's under a bush with a dead mouse - I can't decide if this is good or bad. His mother has ramped up her warnings, screeching and swooping to keep lookie loos and mouse stealers at bay.
Never a dull day around here. Ministry is like this more days than I'd care to admit - making use of the tools and people God puts in front of us, calling for help as needed, mustering courage for the things that are challenging, creating safe space for others to grow into their wings and fly, praying for the best without always knowing what the best outcome might be.
Having a snack handy and someone to watch your back can't hurt.
I would venture to guess you've provided the same care to some of those you're surrounded by...over, and over, and over again!
ReplyDelete