I never expected to receive inspiration from a rabbit’s burrow.
What’s the sweetest scene you’ve witnessed in the animal world?
Growing up on a small farm, I saw kittens, puppies, and calves soon after they were born.
Over the years, our family has loved assorted pets. These days, our temperamental cat elicits smiles and coos as she nestles into the cutest positions.
I enjoy following the development of baby bluebirds that hatch in the houses we’ve provided. And nature programs on television keep me mesmerized.
Yesterday I came across the sweetest scene ever.
After hubby trimmed our rose bushes, I picked up the clippings, reminding him the weeds that had overtaken the flower bed surrounding the birdbath needed his attention. Just then a rabbit scampered from the weeds and hopped across the driveway, disappearing from sight.
As James started to crank up the weed-eater, I dragged the garbage bag of clippings across the lawn toward the birdbath just in time to see a baby bunny scurry out of the weeds and over the grass to hide under a shrub nearby.
What’s going on with those weeds?
Turning around, I discovered a shallow burrow with two tiny bunny faces, sparkling eyes looking back! The entrance wasn’t well concealed—just a few scraggly weeds. In all my years I’d never seen a bunny burrow! Those curious little creatures seemed as fascinated with me as I was with them.
No worries, little ones. The weed-eater will leave your sweet family alone.
Readers, are you thinking I’ve spent way too much time in quarantine? Maybe so. But that precious scene touched me deeply, prompting me to ask self a few questions.
Why do you worry? The Creator will care for you, as he provides for bunnies of the field (and birds and lilies, Matthew 6:25-34).
Why do you stress about circumstances beyond your control? The Father holds you in the palms of his hand (Isaiah 49:16 NIV).
Why do you allow threatening scenarios to rob your sleep? The Psalmist wrote, “I will fear no evil, for thou art with me” (Psalm 23:4).
Nothing comforts quite like the beloved Psalms.
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1). Click To Tweet“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (27:1).
“In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me” (56:4).
“The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?” (118:6).
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and thou the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea…The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge” (46:1-2, 7).
“But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head. I cried unto the Lord with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the Lord sustained me” (3:3-5).
Friend, don’t let the turmoil of this world steal your peace. Lie down and sleep, knowing the Lord sustains you. Do not be afraid!
Don’t let the turmoil of this world steal your peace. Lie down and sleep, knowing the Lord sustains you. Do not be afraid! Click To TweetPlease tell me how the Lord has calmed your fears during this uncertain time. And I’d appreciate your sharing this with your friends!
© Dianne Barker 2020
(Scriptures from KJV unless noted)