Right around this time of year we begin to notice that the kinds of birds in our yards have changed. We no longer hear the distinctive call of the robin as we did just even last month. Looking carefully in the grass, we can see robin feathers on the ground. Before I knew robins actually molt and grow new feathers for their flight south, I often wondered if the neighborhood feral had gotten one.
Beginning in July, they begin to grow additional feathers to help with the flight they take, usually thousands of miles, into our deep South or Mexico. Watching a flock of birds organize themselves for the flight can be overwhelming. And as they take off, it’s almost as if they touch the very heavens.
The blue jays we now have don’t have that same soft sound, reminding us that summer is drawing to a close. It’s darker earlier now, and people seem more frantic in the late afternoon, but just as in the morning, when we breathe in God’s Spirit, we can stop and listen to the sounds of crickets even after the sun sets.
Prayer for the Day
Casting our eyes to the sky, we see signs of the changing season,
For flocks of birds begin heading south anticipating the cold to come;
The farmers’ markets reflect the bounty of the season,
Blueberries gone, and now with pumpkins and squash in abundance.
As we are blessed with the fruits of the earth you have given us, O God,
Let us not forget to share their yield with the poor and displaced.
In the name of the One who fed the multitudes,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
There is a clarity about September. On clear days, the sun seems brighter, the sky more blue, the white clouds take on marvelous shapes; the moon is a wonderful apparition, rising gold, cooling to silver; and the stars are so big.
- Faith Baldwin, American novelist (1897-1973)
September ties its best to have us forget summer.
- Bernard Williams, English moral philosopher (1929-2003)
Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; God’s greatness is unsearchable.
One generation shall laud your works to another, and declare your mighty acts.
On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I meditate.
The might of your awesome deeds shall be proclaimed, declaring your greatness.
They celebrate the fame of your abundant goodness, and sing of your righteousness
Psalm 145: 3-7a