Who then is the faithful and sensible slave whom his master put in charge of his household to give them their food at the proper time?”
Matthew 24:45 (NASB)
Yesterday, amongst my domestic duties was the task of cleaning our bird table in the front garden and restocking the feeders. I am sure our feathered friends appreciate the varied menu of delights that we provide; peanuts, seeds, sunflower hearts, dried mealworms, and birdcake – I have never had any complaints from our diners yet. After restocking, we sit patiently watching for the first visitors from our living room. Sometimes it can be like they were only waiting in the trees for me to finish, then a feeding frenzy ensues. Other times, like yesterday, it is eerily silent for a while. Our first diners yesterday were the Magpies, quick to snaffle the old peanuts spread out on the patio. Their choice highlights the necessity for a varied menu, and the presentation of it. Watch your garden birds for long enough and you will soon realize that Robins, finches, and Magpies have different tastes and dining preferences.
In my reflections, I realized that the rules that dictate my bird table also apply to sharing the Word of God. People are as varied as birds in their food and feeding choices; some prefer direct scriptures, others lean towards parables/testimonies, and yet others benefit from audio/visual media. Some like to talk, others may prefer to read, whether it be in public or private. These choices are important, as long as the food of God’s Word and the Gospel are fed upon.
Dear Reader, our part in this is to be His “faithful and sensible slave,” delivering the food of His Word to those who need it. I feed our birds because winter is coming soon; we need to offer the food of the Good News to those we meet each day – Jesus is coming back soon!
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Devotional Treasures
