A STAGE-COACH was traveling along the country road one day when the driver noticed a hawk pursuing a little lark. The small bird wheeled suddenly in an effort to escape and just then a crow flew between them and this gave the lark a chance to get away.
The hawk, however, relentlessly pursued its prey and after several narrow escapes the lark landed on the top of the coach. Still the hawk hovered overhead. Then suddenly the terrified lark flew right into the arms of the driver and settled on his breast, panting and breathless. The driver took the poor little thing in his hand where it was safe and secure, and the hawk disappeared. About three miles further on, he opened his hand to release the lark. It sat there still for some time as if reluctant to leave, then it took off and disappeared.
The little bird had no power to defend itself against its cruel and ruthless enemy, so it sought a refuge in the breast of the coach driver. Does this not remind us of the words of that lovely hymn:
Safe in the arms of Jesus,
Safe on His gentle breast,
There by His love o’ershaded
Sweetly my soul shall rest.
Then when the driver took the lark in his hand it reminds us of the words of the Good Shepherd Himself: “My sheep hear My voice and I know them and they follow Me. And I give unto them eternal life and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.” John 10:27-29.
Those who flee for refuge to the Lord Jesus find in Him eternal safety; no one can hurt them. If you have not trusted in Him yet, why not, like the lark, fly to the safety of the Saviour’s breast. You will be the object of His love and care forever.
E. H. S.
ML-04/29/1973