June 22

“Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings? and not one of them is forgotten before God.”—Luke 12:6.

LET me learn a lesson, as Martin Luther did, from Doctor Sparrow. I shall find him a wise and gracious teacher.

He lives in God’s royal House. The sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest, where they may lay their young, even Thine altars, O Lord of Hosts. What the bird does unconsciously let me do consciously and willingly. Let me feel, and be comforted by feeling, that the palace of the King is my home here and hereafter. Let me dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.

He feeds at God’s wealthy Table. Behold the birds of the heaven, that they sow not, neither do they reap nor gather into barns; and the Father feedeth them. I would fain live as freely and happily and trustfully, taking with thankfulness what my liberal Lord is sure to send. A mighty Hand caters for me, a tender Heart remembers my hunger and thirst. Jehovah Himself sees me and provides.

He dies under God’s compassionate Eye. Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings? and not one of them, though their little span of life is ended now, is forgotten in the sight of God. Surely, surely, the dust of His child will be still more dear to Him. My soul, “art thou afraid His power shall fail?” He will watch over my grave. And by and by I shall awake and sing.

“It cometh therefore to this, Lord: I have considered Thy word, And henceforth will be Thy bird.”