Day 200 | Monday, 5 October 2020

Day 200 - Audio Version

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Day 200  |  Monday,  5 October 2020

From the Church Mouse

“You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.” Psalm 32:7   NIV

Today is a story for you about Louie the Cockatiel. He belonged to Grandma Lana who was Doug’s grandmother. He occupied a prominent place in Grandma Lana’s apartment in Cattaraugus. He would tweet happily while bathing in his bowl or watching other birds playing outside. One whole side of Grandma Lana’s sitting room was sunny windows facing the street.

Louie was a very handsome bird. His beautiful gray, white and yellow feathers contrasted with his yellow topknot and rosy cheeks. He was both cuddly and bold, curious and, at times, feisty. He would greet you with his repertoire of chirps and whistles. You could usually tell what kind of day Louie was having by checking out his yellow crest. If it was straight-up it meant that he was glad to see us and was curious about what we had to say…unless he hadn’t seen you coming and he was startled. If he had his crest feathers flattened to his head, it meant to give him a wide berth, especially if he was hissing. If Louie was relaxed, he had slightly held back crest feathers, as well as fluffed cheek feathers. You might even hear him contentedly grinding his beak.

Louie’s favorite pastimes were flying around the apartment or roosting on top of his cage, or the doors, or the curtains or whatever. After he had spent all his pent-up energy, he would fly to wherever Grandma Lana might be sitting. Landing on her shoulder, he would tweet whatever news she needed to hear. Then he would climb to the front of her shirt or usually her apron. No doubt he enjoyed the warmth of her body.  He was just contented to stay there for the entire length of our stay with Grandma Lana. Even if she got up to bring us something to drink, Louie might decide to hang on for the ride. As I am writing this and remembering Grandma Lana, I still miss her loving care of everyone she held dear. And I still remember Louie, and I smile.

Louie’s desire for closeness reminds me that I need intimate times with my Heavenly Father. When I gather close to him, I inevitably find protection, comfort, and hope.  Being with him warms my heart and makes me smile.
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“Father forgive me those seasons when I forget to seek your companionship. Draw me near as I remember your character and all your benefits. Teach me to live for you.” David L. Winters