Learning from the Woodpecker

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Learning from the Woodpecker

Ephesians 2:10 “For God has made us what we are, created in Christ Jesus to do those good deeds which he planned for us to do.” (Phillips translation)

The air was damp and sticky as I began the final stretch of my early morning walk. The warmth of the bedroom had wakened me in the wee hours, and after tossing and turning for what seemed like an eternity, I had ventured out to greet the day. Lost in thought I rounded the curve and headed back towards the house. Suddenly, a rapid, hollow tapping broke the stillness of the morning. The sound reverberated through the air like a popgun firing in close proximity.

Jarred from my reverie, I searched the surrounding area for the origin of the sound. Finally I saw him. Perched near the top of a tall telephone pole clung the tiniest woodpecker. He was banging his beak against the wood in search of his breakfast. I could hardly believe the powerful sound that his diligent pecking made.

God made these tiny birds with adaptations for their drumming. Their brain is small and tightly encased in an extremely strong skull made of sponge-like bone to protect them from brain damage. Their eyes contain a thick membrane that creates a cover as they strike to eliminate injury from flying debris. Their feet are strong and their bills sharp with a sticky tongue for grabbing moving insects. He created them and equipped them to do exactly what He planned. And even though they are small, the sound of their tapping fills the air.

Just recently I was reading about Charles H. Spurgeon, a famous preacher from the 1800s. God used this man to reach many for Christ before the days of television, internet, and radio. One day he preached a message on heaven and hell to an audience of 12,000 seated in an open field. Can you imagine how loud his voice must have been to reach that many people without an electric sound system? God adapted this godly man to the ministry he had for him and the settings in which he would preach. Though just one small man amongst thousands, like the woodpecker his voice boomed out, reaching many with the gospel.

You have also been equipped for a special service. God has made you exactly as He desired so that you can fulfill His plans. Maybe you have physical characteristics that will allow you to fit into a foreign culture where you can share the gospel message. Maybe you have a tender heart that can patiently work with children or the elderly. Maybe you have a booming voice that will captivate large crowds.

Do not look at others and consider yourself insignificant. Even the tiny woodpecker on top of a tall telephone pole can startle a passerby on an early summer morning. Allow God full control of your life and His message will sound forth from you to reach your world.

Love,

Mama

1 Comment

  1. Carolina Hinojosa-Cisneros on June 23, 2016 at 4:53 PM

    Great reminder that God uses everything. Have a great week! xoxo

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Hi, I'm Sandy! 

I write inspirational letters based on the Bible that share words of hope, encouragement, truth, and healing to my children and anyone else who longs for a mama's touch.

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