Mozart's pet bird

The birds of the heavens . . . sing among the branches.  — Psalm 104:12

Mozart is revered as a genius of musical composition. In one instance, he was even inspired by the melody of a bird. Mozart had a pet starling whose song so fascinated him that some say he wrote a piece of music based on the melody he heard in the bird’s chirps.

Birds were also an inspiration to the psalmist. In Psalm 104, he praises God for caring for the living creatures. He put on the earth. Included in his observations are birds who fly in the heavens above, perch in the branches of trees, and sing songs of heartfelt joy: “The birds of the heavens have their home; they sing among the branches” (v. 12). Nature filled the psalmist’s heart with praise to God, and I think that must have included the musical sounds of the birds.

Often the marvels we see in creation prompt us to worship. This theme is repeated throughout Scripture: “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork” (Ps. 19:11) Creation’s stimulus to praise need not be limited to the visual. It can also be widened to include hearing nature’s songs. As we go about our daily routine, we can tune our hearts to the melodies God has placed in His creatures and let them serve as an added springboard of praise to the Creator. — Dennis Fisher

As Mozart added the song of a bird

To a musical innovation,

Let’s all add our voice to the worldwide song

Of praise to the God of creation. — F. Hess

READ: Psalm 104:1-13

All of nature is a grand symphony conducted by the Creator.

The Bible in one year:

• Psalms 103-104

• 1 Corinthians 2