OPENED AND CLOSED By Marion Smith

The red headed woodpecker was perched on the tree, intently pecking away. He was a large bird and the colors on his head and back were very vivid. It was a lovely vision; one I didn’t think could be improved upon. Then he took off in flight. When he spread his wings I knew the sight was more beautiful to behold. In the moments I was able to watch him before he flew out of sight, I saw a pattern to his wing span that was remarkable. This woodpecker was definitely more beautiful with his wings opened up. The same is true of an oriental fan. When the fan is closed you are unable to see the beauty of it. You know it is there, but until that fan is unfolded, you are not able to have a visually enjoyable experience. But just shake that fan out,.. let it unfold, and they beauty of the design or picture appears.

This is also true in the life of a Christian. If we stay all folded up, into our selves, and never fan ourselves out, the beauty of God in our lives will not be shared.

It is good and wonderful to have the love of Christ within ourselves, but even as we do, God calls us to open our wing of love – serving others and sharing with them what He has given to us.

Let’s start today and unfold our wings, taking off in flight in whatever direction God sends us.