Early Mornings

When I pull back the kitchen curtains in the morning and look for the birds, I realize I’m late to the party. My feathered friends have already been at the feeders for hours, eating leftover seeds from yesterday. And they’re not the only ones.

I remember once, when our children were young, we took a trip to Glacier National Park in Montana. We stayed overnight in one of the park cabins. We had been told that you could see moose (which are quite elusive) if you went down to the nearby pond early in the morning. Well, we didn’t set any alarms, took time getting our coffee, and arrived at the pond about 9:30.

 Although the pond was beautiful, the moose were long gone, having come to get their drink while we were still sleeping.

Here at home, I’m not expecting to see any moose, but on those mornings when I get up early, I’m in for a treat. The birds are happily chattering to each other. The sun is just coming up behind the trees. I can see the brightness it casts even on a cloudy day.

The early morning is fresh and clean and uncluttered, a peaceful pause before the busyness of the day.

Sometimes I get up early because my mind is racing. It gives me extra time to pray and to tell God my concerns. The Creator of the universe cares about me!

“Pile your troubles on God’s shoulders—
    he’ll carry your load, he’ll help you out.”

(Psalm 55:22)

These words reassure me. I’ll find strength for the day, knowing I am not alone; my good Shepherd Jesus is walking with me and leading me in my journey, each step of the way.

“But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles;

they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.”

Isaiah 40:31