Over the past couple of days my backyard, which usually is rich with birds, has been unusually quiet, as my feathered friends buried themselves deep in the trees out of the cold. Today, many of the birds—sparrows, starlings, and cardinals—returned to the feeders.
My favorite winter scene is the male cardinal sitting on a snow-covered pine tree branch. The vibrant red feathers pop against the snowy backdrop, and, for a moment, I am mesmerized by nature’s artistry. I had to ask myself why this winter picture is so captivating to me.
After pondering that thought for a few days, I arrived at a conclusion. This scene is rich with theological significance. The bright red color of the male cardinal reminds me of the precious blood that my Savior shed for me on the cross. The white snow is a reminder of the purity of Christ and the beauty of His resurrected body. And the green branches of the pine trees bring to mind the newness of life that I will one day experience in the presence of my glorious Lord.
God uses even the snow and cold and birds to bring His reality to light.
Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.
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Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD
Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASB
Life Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2