On Eagles Wings?

Devotional by Mary Daniel

Isaiah 40:31 - But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (KJV)

I have long known that eagles are held in reverence by many who consider that it is a blessing or a sign of "good luck" if they see an eagle at important moments in their life. Indeed, a very beautiful hymn is written about God lifting us up on the wings of eagles and holding us in the palm of His hand.

For me to see an eagle usually requires a drive up-island or out into the country. To see one within city limits is a very rare and special occasion. So it was, the other day. In the car, between visiting the chiropractor and keeping another appointment, I was experiencing the stress signals of tense muscles. Deciding not to let stress take over, I pushed one of my favorite music tapes into the player. As I approached the stoplight at a busy intersection, I noticed an eagle ahead, and was soothed by watching it soaring, seemingly in synchrony with my songs. To the right, two more eagles followed the pattern, soaring, dipping, and soaring. I moved ahead, marveling at the beauty that had been given to me, and my tension was gently eased. As if to reinforce the message, one more eagle softly and majestically soared in the distance.

This reinforces the fact that God is ever-present in our lives, if only we open our ears, our hearts, and our eyes. He sends that message over and over, in so many ways and forms, in whatever way He perceives we will best receive it.

Prayer: Our Heavenly Father, help us to appreciate and give thanks for all that we are so freely given. Enable us to see the magnitude of Your presence in the seemingly simple soaring of an eagle, and in so seeing, may we allow You to hold us in the palm of Your hand. In Your name we pray. Amen.