Flying the Friendly Skies

Leaving Lee State Prison the other day, I saw a menacing hawk soaring ungracefully through the sky as a tiny starling was attacking the hawk from above to protect her nest from this predator. The formidable hawk is the natural enemy of this frail little starling. I asked myself, “how does this little bird have such power over her deadly enemy?” The answer came quickly.

The hawk’s sharp talons and deadly beak are always below him. As long as the tiny starling remains above her mortal enemy, she is safe and effective against the treat to her family. As soon as the starling lowers herself to the level of the hawk, she becomes his next meal along with the nestlings. She is safe and successful against this deadly threat to her very existence as long as she remains above her enemy.

The Apostle Paul wrote to the Romans 12: 18 If possible, as much as depends on you, keep peace with all men. 19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but give place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord. 20 Therefore "If your enemy should hunger, feed him; if he should thirst, give him drink; for by doing this, you will heap coals of fire upon his head." 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

The lesson is, as long as we remain on “higher moral ground” (or sky) and not become like those who have hurt us by “getting even,” we will ultimately prevail against those people, places and things that seem to have hurt us. Like the little starling, if I should lower myself to the level of my enemies, I will ultimately be harmed or even destroyed along with my loved ones.

Are you above or below your “hawks”? Seek the higher path and protect your soul, your life, your peace and your loved ones.

by Pastor John