The church I pastor is in the outskirts of town where there are lots of trees and greenery. I’ve seen otters playing in our back pond (which we call ‘Lake Jordan’), owls on trees, hawks, and you can even spot an eagle every once in a while.
One day I was tired of being in the office and decided to relax and gather my thoughts by taking a walk to the back of the church property. I leaned against a back wall of one of our buildings while admiring the pond, vegetation, and peaceful scenery before me.
I looked up and saw what seemed like eagles soaring in wind currents at great altitudes. They were so high up they looked tiny against the clear blue skies. I was so excited to see them, I wanted them to get closer so I could get a clear look. I didn’t have my binoculars so I did the next best thing, I cupped my hands around both sides of my mouth and as loud as I could I did my ‘eagle call.’
“CAW…CAW…” Of course I have no clue what eagles sound like. I probably sounded like a hurt crow, but I didn’t care. So I kept doing my loud calling. I’m sure whoever lives in the homes near the church property probably wondered what was making those horrible sounds and how to put it out of its misery.
After a few attempts I waited to see if any of those eagles started flying my way. But there was no change to their flight pattern. I called again and watched and waited some more. Then I called yet again. My eyes were so completely fixed on those majestic creatures so far away that I didn’t see a huge hawk flying fast, low, wings spread wide open and coming straight at me.
Hawks, like eagles, are impressive predators. They can travel at speeds of up to 40 mph. The hawk was coming at such speed… by the time I saw it he was too close for me to run or hide.
I froze with my back pressed against the building! Then, before reaching me, the bird elevated some and perched itself on low lying telephone wires just a few feet away from me. He stared at me for what seemed like the longest time. I called him a pretty bird and even had a 1-sided conversation with him about me being a human and not another species of animal. But I also threatened to defend myself with a mop next to me if the bird made a sudden move towards me.
Eventually, the hawk flew away and I returned to my office wondering about it all.
Moses once wrote in a prayer to God on behalf of the people,
“That we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12 (NIV)
Thinking back, I almost missed the greatness of a beautiful hawk for the sake of the eagles I could barely see.
Maybe what you’re reaching for is unattainable at this particular moment. That’s alright, though. Keep pursuing what you want, but at the same time look around you because there might be something great at your fingertips (an opportunity, an interview, an invitation) that you won’t want to miss.
Sometimes we can be so focused on tomorrow that we totally miss the good of today. There might be something of value now that complements and even reinforces what you’re in the process of seeking. Take it all in and let it become a part of the great life you’re in the process of pursuing.
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Loved this and how you put things into today’s terms for simple people to understand!
Thank you Doreen!!
My mother-in-law has a wonderful outlook on life! She is so positive even as she is dealing with her own severe health issues. Ever since I’ve known her she has always; during the course of our conversations, come up with some interesting comments. I have often good-naturedly told her, “Mom, talking with you is always an adventure!”
I thought about that after I read your blog this week, Jorge, because everyday we can experience a new ‘adventure’ with God!
Planning and looking ahead is important, but when we get so preoccupied with what’s going to happen tomorrow, we can miss what God has put right in front of us today! It could be an encounter with a certain person, or a blessing, or as you mentioned, an opportunity. Or maybe just stepping outside and appreciating His marvelous creation.
Look around, God is always there!
I agree! Thanks, Jim!