The Cloud and the Bird

by | May 27, 2002 | Distraction, Focus

“ . . . Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith . . .” (Heb 12:1-2)

A particular cloud caught my eye this morning as I walked down the road. I didn’t give it more than a passing glance, though. After all, it was only a LITTLE CLOUD! Until a voice rang out loud and clear in my mind, that is: “Look back at the cloud!”

I knew it was God’s voice, but as usual, I was prepared to argue: “Why Lord? It IS pretty, but it is JUST A CLOUD!”

Nevertheless, I had learned the necessity of obedience, and even though the answer to my “why” wasn’t immediately forthcoming, I looked back at the cloud. Then a tiny bird flew across the sky, and instantly, my eyes followed it, reveling in its beautiful, its freedom, its independence—all the things I admired! In fact, I so enjoyed watching it, that when it finally disappeared, I had to drag my eyes away from the empty horizon and back to the cloud.

Then God spoke to me again: “Why did you look away?”

I shook my head. “I don’t know! I guess I was just enjoying watching the bird. It was so free!”

Then He said, “True Freedom comes through Me!”

Suddenly I realized that I wasn’t looking at an ordinary cloud, but one that was symbolic of Jesus! In my daily walk with Christ, I need to stay focused on Him! But just like the bird, something vivid and alluring always comes along and makes me forget that I have everything I need through Christ. It pulls my attention away from Him!

Has a bird flown across your line of vision, my friend? Has something happened that has pulled your eyes away from Jesus? Remember, no matter what those distractions represent, Jesus is the answer! He’s the ONLY One who can fill the voids in your life. He’s the ONLY One who can give you the true desires of your heart, even if you don’t know what those are! No matter what the apparent personal cost, the way to ultimate happiness lies in focusing in Him and Him alone! Don’t follow the bird. Pull your eyes back to Jesus!

Love in Christ,

Lyn Chaffart

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