Merciful Warnings

As I walked along alone this morning - my fair weather and delicate four-footed friends Frankie and Rosie having deserted me about a mile back as we passed the gate to the farm, with the porch looking more inviting than another mile with me – I was lost in my thoughts and prayers. You know, those things that everybody thinks are worthless in times of catastrophe. So I wasn’t very alert and I wasn’t prepared when a huge blue egret swooped up out of the creek about a foot from me. His wingspan was easily 4 feet across, and his beak was a foot long and sharp, and I could feel the wind as he flashed by. For just a second before he banked away we made eye contact and his look seemed to me to be less one of surprise and more a bit of warning. As I caught my breath, it occurred to me that this is a bit what it might be like when we “cross over to meet Jesus” - Die. Even if we are expecting it after a long illness, I imagine the moment to be a bit of breathless surprise, followed by recognition and amazement. It’s kind of God to send these little warnings into our daily lives. They help us remember that one day we will catch our breath in heaven. Or perhaps not. If you are someone who sees a warning today, take it as it is offered – as a mercy.