Project 52: Things That Grow

     On Easter morning, my sister-in-law discovered four tiny sparrows in a planter on her porch.  I knew that they were perfect for the Project 52 prompt, Things That Grow.  They are so precious.

How lovely is your dwelling place O Lord God Almighty!

My soul yearns, even faints for the courts of the Lord.

My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.

Even the sparrow has found a home ... where she may have her young.

A place near your altar O Lord Almighty, my King and my God.

Blessed are those who dwell in your house

 they are ever praising you.  

As they pass through the Valley of Tears

 they make it a place of springs;...

They go from strength to strength. Psalm 84:1-7

    God's temple was a safe haven for the birds that built their nests.  They could not be driven away.  Even the smallest, most defenseless insignificant bird, the sparrow - which sold two for a penny, had a home at God's altar.  His presence protected them.  They rested in the shadow of His wings.

     The psalmist envied the sparrows that lived around the house of God.  He provided for their every need.  They were fed by the crumbs that fell in the temple courts.  There were soft scraps of fabric and bits of straw for their nests.  They had shelter from the summer heat and the winter storms.  The temple was a place to gather their young when the day was done and rest in safety.

     When we raise our children in the halls of God we move from strength to strength.  Consider the sparrow and let the local church be a home, a shelter from the storm, a sanctuary, and a nest for our little ones.  Let's rest, nestle in, and share the joy that comes from loving God.

     Come see what is growing at Darcy's this week at Project 52.