One of my favorite birds, the Northern Mockingbird, has been a reminder and example to me throughout this year. I shared on social media this summer of being serenaded by a mockingbird in the middle of the night. 2 a.m. and he was outside the window, singing his heart out.
Another time, we were sitting in the drive-thru of Steak’n’Shake (we just happened to be running errands during “happy hour” – of course we had a half-priced shake to share). While waiting, we heard many varied songs – enjoying each one. We finally spotted the bush where he was perched, when the person in the vehicle in front of us yelled out their window for the bird to be quiet. He moved further in (where I couldn’t get his picture) but still continued to sing. That was when I realized he was not singing for us. He was singing for the Lord. Psalm 148 (verses 7-11 specifically) speaks of all creation praising the Lord.
I was reminded by a mockingbird again during a string of dreary days earlier this fall. Lack of sunshine makes me a bit grumpy and we were on day 4 of overcast skies — I was grumpy. While outside doing chores, I heard the cheerful song of the mockingbird. It brought to mind Psalm 34:1 “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall be continually in my mouth.” If even this bird sings praises to the Lord on these gray days, why can I not? I think much too highly of myself if I think my praise should only be reserved for good and beautiful days.
