FROM my window I can look out and see a robin’s nest on a bough of an apple tree that grows close beside the house. I can go quite close to the bird as she sits upon her eggs; she seems to know I will do her no harm.
Only a short time ago, as I looked out of the window, I could see her very busily building her nest. With what wonderful skill she wove the different materials together—dried grass, twigs and bits of thread—which her sharp eyes had searched out. She seemed so glad and happy in making a home for her young.
The nest was very soon completed, and a few days later, on looking into rt from the upper story I could see four pretty blue eggs lying so costly in the nest. As I looked at it, I could not but think what a pity it would be if any harm should come to the nest, and how grieved the pair of birds would be at such a sad ending of their happy plans.
I once heard a pair of swallows utter the most piteous cries for hours after their nest had been destroyed.
I am sure all our boys and girls will feel an interest in these little builders, and cultivate a sympathy and kindly attitude towards them, and indeed, towards all of God’s creatures, whether birds or animals. They are all under His care, and He provides for their wants, and gives them the wisdom they need.
As great as God’s care is in connection with the vast multitude of His creatures, He sets a much greater value upon you, dear children. He provides for you, not only for your material needs that arise from day to day, but He has also made a rich and wonderful provision for your never-dying souls in the sacrifice of His dear Son upon the cross. How great was the love of God to do this; and how great was the love of Jesus to endure the cross in order that you might be saved! May your hearts be touched by this love, and be won to Him.
ML-08/15/1920