On the Wing

Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. — Matthew 10:31

In his book On the Wing, Alan Tennant chronicles his efforts to track the migration of the peregrine falcon. Valued for their beauty, swiftness, and power, these amazing birds of prey were favorite hunting companions of emperors and nobility. Sadly, the wide use of the pesticide DDT in the 1950s interfered with their reproductive cycle and placed them on the endangered species list.

Interested in the recovery of this species, Tennant attached transmitters to a select number of falcons to track their migration patterns. But when he and his pilot flew their Cessna behind the birds, they repeatedly lost signal from the transmitters. Despite their advanced technology, they were not always able to track the birds they wanted to help.

It’s good to know that the God who cares for us never loses track of us. In fact, Jesus said that not even one sparrow “falls to the ground apart from [God’s] will . . . Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows” (Matt. 10:29-31).

When we face difficult circumstances, fear may cause us to wonder if God is aware of our situation. Jesus’ teaching assures us that God cares deeply and is in control. His tracking of our lives will never fail. — Dennis Fisher

I would tell the Lord my longings,

Roll on Him my every care;

Cast upon Him all my burdens,

Burdens that I cannot bear. — Weigle

READ: Matthew 10:27-31

If God cares for birds, will He not care for His children?

The Bible in one year:

• Genesis 33-35

• Matthew 10:1-20