Riding Out the Storms

Just a couple of days ago Brian & I decided it was time to promote our “teen” chickies from sleeping in their toddler bed with their Broody Mama into the adult Hoop Coop with their Daddy Rooster, Moses, and their Aunties. As any parent of transitioning sleepers knows, it ain’t easy. There was crying, persistence in returning to the old bed, redirection, cajoling, and general misunderstanding on the parts of the inconvenienced poultry who wanted nothing more than to return to their comfortable place they’d known since birth. If only we could explain, “I know it’s hard, but trust us. It’s time. You need more space. This will keep you healthy and thriving!” But alas, we don’t speak chicken.

As if on cosmic cue, no sooner had we convinced them to somewhat warm to this idea (read: 4 days of insisting, catching, relocating, and the aforementioned cajoling) than crazy autumn rains ensued. After a late summer drought, we are now flooding. And believe me when I say, ain’t nobody can give side eye like a wet hen and her progeny.

While I still don’t think they understand, they have moved from nesting on the floor of the adult Hoop Coop to roosting, while still desiring closeness to their Mama who has been their ever-present safety since day hatch. As I came home in the dark (thanks time change) and waded out through the now swamp to check on their progress, I was deeply satisfied to see them for the second night all on the roost with two of them tucked under her wings. It is precious to see them clinging to her and to see her choosing to cover them and draw them into her sides.

And I’m reminded of how our Father, God, is desirous to cover us in just such ways, but we humans, much like the teen chickies who didn’t understand, are resistant.

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!” Matthew 23:37

'For thus said the Lord God , the Holy One of Israel, “In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.” But you were unwilling, ' Isaiah 30:15

How often do we forget and run around like a chicken with their head cut off? (*ahem* sorry not sorry, how do I not throw that in this?!)

'He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. ' Psalms 91:4

During the day she fiercely defends her teens from anything that could cause them harm. It is quite a sight to see! She fluffs up to about 3-4x her size, lowers her head and charges in the direction of the enemy. She literally is their shield and their rampart, and intimidatingly so. At night, she draws them in and is their tender place of rest and refuge.

And this is our God.

Friend, the discomfort of unusual may be present, but so is our loving Heavenly Father. I believe He, too, is speaking over us, “I know it’s hard, but it’s time. You need more space. This will keep you healthy and thriving! Do you trust Me?”

So remember these little chickies and take heart!

'So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. ' Matthew 10:31

I’m guessing this also means you are worth more than many chickies!

Live WELL today!