Each morning for the past week we have been rudely awakened at 5 AM by a family of blue jays. The babies look full-grown but are still demanding to be fed. It is their endless screaming for attention that rouses me from slumber. I have tried closing the windows and putting a pillow over my head but to no avail. I might just as well get up because this cacophony continues on and on as mom and dad blue jay rush to fill their bottomless pits. I am reminded of one of Jesus’ beatitudes which says, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness for they shall be filled.” I am wishing those baby jays would soon be filled.
Jesus knew inside most people there is a hunger, a longing to be something they are not. It is difficult to be content. The more we have of something the more we want. No one seems to have enough money. I see people searching for love, power, prestige and fame. It is a bottomless pit. However, if what you are seeking is righteousness that Jesus has in abundance and is willing to share. Like the blue jay parents He waits for His children to open up and He will rush to supply our need.
We can spend our lives trying to be good people only to be frustrated for if we are honest we know the truth about ourselves. In Romans 7 Paul describes his frustrated quest but then proclaims to us the good news. Jesus Christ will rescue us. He will supply all our needs.
Written by Roger Bothwell on July 26, 2002
rogerbothwell.org