“Remember His marvelous works which He has done, His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth…” 1 Chronicles 16:12
I’m crazy about fall, and with the autumnal equinox almost upon us, I’m already excited about getting out the pumpkins, fall-leaf garlands, “Happy Fall Y’all” sign, and other fun decorations for the house. But one thing I’ll miss when warm weather disappears is the privilege of watching hummingbirds.
In June, I pulled out my hanger with suction cups, stuck it to my kitchen window, filled the hummingbird feeder with sugary water, and waited. In less than a week, we had a swarm of hummingbirds swooping around it like giant hornets.
Hummingbirds don’t really act like other birds…they’re more like X-wing fighters from “Star Wars,” zooming in and out, hovering midair, flying backwards, battling for prime position at the feeder. And while you’re not supposed to believe everything you read on the Internet, I believe that (according to Wikipedia) their teeny tiny wings can beat as fast as 80 times per second!
I have been so blessed to enjoy a front-row view of these itsy-bitsy birds. Their iridescent colors, especially on the ruby-throated males, are spectacular. Their antics, chirps, and occasional squabbles are entertaining, too.
Mostly, though, I marvel at God’s amazing handiwork. How did He imagine such a creature? As John Piper noted in his book, The Dangerous Duty of Delight, God’s glory is the “outward radiance of the intrinsic beauty and greatness of His manifold perfections.” These little cuties are perfect evidence of His creative genius and unfathomable mystery!
Very soon, they’ll be gone, journeying much further south of here to breeding grounds away from winter’s deadly blast. But while they’re here, I’ll praise God for this fleeting miracle of loveliness and wonder. Happy last week of summer, y’all!!!
Wow, God…always give me the eyes of a child when viewing Your marvelous works here on your beautiful Earth. Never let me take Your incredible creation for granted. Make us all mindful of protecting this gift from You—this extraordinary environment and these delicate creatures that share it with us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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Nancy C. Williams 