As winter grips our area and cold weather sends shivers down our spines, we tend to shift our thoughts to what we might do for the next four months. We don’t really hibernate like many of our four-footed friends, but we do like to spend time inside near the fire or under a blanket — or both — this time of year.
One of my favorite activities is to feed the birds during the winter season. I am so fascinated by how they live their lives and gather their food when conditions are less than favorable. I am particularly intrigued by cardinals, whom ornithologist’s tell us stay loyal to one mate their entire life.
In a spiritual context, a cardinal is often interpreted as a symbol of hope, faith, and God’s presence. The vibrant red color is associated with vitality, life, and the blood of Jesus, while the bird’s year-round presence represents God’s constant and faithful constancy. The cardinal can also symbolize messages of encouragement or reminders of God’s care and love. So watch the cardinals this winter and allow them to lift your spirits.
Scripture tells us that there is a lot we can learn from the birds. For example, the Gospel of Matthew (6:26) invites us to “look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”
Indeed, in all seasons and in all types of weather, God will never leave or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). Let us rejoice in this promise and share it with others all year long.