As I look out my office window I’m seeing signs of spring in many places throughout our yard. Trees and bushes are budding; early spring flowers are beginning to bloom; the grass is turning green; and the birds are flitting around, seeking food and building nests.

I was thinking about the birds the other day, and noticed that even on rainy or windy days they are still happily chirping and seem quite content. Sometimes it’s hard for us humans to feel contentment when things aren’t going so well. Sometimes we get caught up in worry and could take a lesson from the birds. Here is a poem I wrote some time ago that I’d like to share with you, entitled “The Birds of the Air.”

The birds of the air don’t worry and fret, they don’t complain when it rains and they’re wet. The birds of the air sing a sweet melody; their simple contentment is really the key. Our Father cares for the birds of the air; and He cares for us as we offer a prayer. He provides for the birds with insects and seeds; and He always provides for His children’s needs. There is much we can learn from birds of the air, who don’t worry about what they’re going to wear. If we learn not to worry, fret, and complain, we’ll have nothing to lose and much to gain. If we trust God completely, as the birds of the air, our life will be blessed with His tender care.

Are you feeling a sense of contentment today?

Have you ever cleaned house, washed the dishes, cooked a meal, or done any other chore and felt unappreciated? I think everyone has felt that way at some time—especially mothers.

During visits with some of our Amish friends I’ve noticed that their chores were done without complaint or question. I’m also aware of how the Amish use their time of working to visit with anyone who might be helping them. In fact, their work becomes a time of socializing, making it seem more enjoyable. However, even tasks done alone can be satisfying. Cleaning the house, doing dishes, and washing clothes can be looked upon with a sense of gratification, knowing you’ve done your best.

Whenever I’m doing a job I’d rather not do, and even if I feel unappreciated, I remind myself what God’s Word says in Colossians 3:23 (KJV): “And whatever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” Maybe the reason my Amish friends don’t complain about the work they are required to do is because they’re doing it as unto the Lord.

Here is my prayer for this week: Lord, as I go about my work, help me remember to do all my chores as if I’m doing them for You.

A few Sundays ago we sang some hymns in church that took me back to my spiritual roots and made me appreciate the people who had written those meaningful hymns. Hardly a sermon is preached during an Amish church service without some mention of the Plain People’s forefathers who offered their lives as martyrs many years ago. I believe remembering what their ancestors went through helps to strengthen their faith.

It’s important for us to remember our religious roots and look to the past when we need a reminder of how Christianity was born. It will make us pause and be thankful for the religious freedom we enjoy in a world so torn. It’s also good to look to the future with faith and anticipation of what God is going to do. Psalm 90:1-2 (NIV) reminds us: “Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.”

Is there a special hymn or verse of scripture calling you to remember your spiritual roots? It’s good to reflect on memories with deep meaning that will last. It’s even better to open your heart and let God renew your spirit as you follow Him for the rest of your days.