Letter: Moving in the right direction

My first thought was that a large moth or small bat had trapped itself but then I realised it was a small bird. Its wings were flapping with great intensity as it slammed itself repeatedly into the roof. It was clearly intent on flying upwards, but there was no way out in that direction. The poor bird was exhausted and clearly needed some help.

Using my hand, I carefully guided it into the middle thinking it would have no trouble finding an exit with the door wide open. Yet, again when it tried to leave, it headed upwards. Could it not see the wide open door with freedom just a few feet away? It seemed intent on finding an escape route but never the obvious one. Eventually, after leaving it alone it found its way outside.

I couldn’t help but think how much like that bird we all are. The difference is that our search is for happiness and the meaning of life. We search in all the wrong places over and over again, looking to material goods or pleasure all without success. Instead of seeing the wide open door that God has provided, we continue to run into blind allies and bang our heads in frustration.

We try again and again without finding the happiness we crave. Why are we so blind that we can’t see what God has made available? He wants us to find the freedom of living for him. Time and again he gently nudges us in the right direction – but we can be so blind.

Come to God in penitence and faith and he will give you his love, joy and peace.