Windstream - Northern Cardinal
John Miller
02/24/25
- Windstream Mail
R E F L E C T I O N S
Thoughts on nature and the Christian faith
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"Beware of practicing your righteousness before
other people in order to be seen by them." - Mt. 6:1
I took this image of a northern cardinal on a cold winter's day after a heavy snowfall. The contrast of the brilliant red color of the bird against the bright white of the snow stood out in a way that could not be missed. It was as if the cardinal had shouted, "Look at me!" It was impossible not to look at him. Certain colors demand notice. That is why red traffic lights are red. In fact, it was the color of these birds that gave them their name. They were named after the color of the robes worn by Cardinals in the Roman Catholic church. Northern cardinals did not choose this color, God did. And I doubt that cardinals in the Roman Catholic church chose the color of their robes in order to be noticed, but this color does result in being noticed whether that was the intent or not. Being noticed is a desire that many humans possess and all too many Christians pursue. How? By making sure others see whatever good we may do. In the scriptures we are told that the Pharisees would have trumpets blown so all could see any good deed they were about to do. Jesus said they may be rewarded by others, but not by God. God delights in our doing good deeds in secret. If we do, he said he will certainly reward us, and his reward will far surpass anything man can give. Look for ways to help those in need without drawing any attention to yourself. If no one knows about it except you and God, what you do will be rewarded and God will be pleased. Much good can be done outside of the spotlights. The world already has plenty of Christians fighting over who gets the attention. God made cardinals so that they are always noticed, but he has other plans for us. - John
