Now, I love animals and all of God's creations but I don't consider myself to be an "animal rescuer." What I mean is I don't really get upset if someone squashes a bug...and although I do wish to see every animal in those animal shelters homed-I am not normally the advocate that puts them there. However, there are people who have the love and skill who know what to do in a time of "animal crisis"-like my co-worker Katie-who is an avid animal lover and rescuer. As soon as I got into the building I let Katie know about that poor little bird. She started a rescue mission right away-letting other teachers know the bird was there (making sure kids didn't mistake him for a leaf, making sure no one accidentally stepped on him). In about 10 minutes she had located some butterfly contraption to put him in, called someone who knows of a wildlife rescue that might take him and nurse him back to health, and located gloves (as not to get her scent on the bird when transferring him to said butterfly contraption). I love this about her! After all this prep to get the bird, she walks outside and can't find him! I walk back outside with her and help her look for him and we realized he must have flown away. I was happy for that little bird because I know the quality of life for him would have declined had we tried to transfer him to some strange place-out of his habitat.
Recently I was given the opportunity to fly away from my own "habitat" and to do this I had to step out in Faith. I knew there would be an opportunity coming-I just wasn't sure when. I have had this feeling for about 6 months-I just felt something (someone, the Holy Spirit) tell my soul: "Don't worry. This isn't it. There is more."
In the last two weeks, I have been prayerfully considering this opportunity that literally fell at my feet. I continually sought out God's Will in this situation and everything just kind of fell into place. It still is! And although I cannot confirm EXACTLY what that is yet...I do know that God gave me the courage to step out in Faith, to trust Him, to step out of my Comfort Zone...and that's not easy for anyone!
I think, just like that little bird, at the point of rescue-God gives us the courage to "fly away"-either from what's holding us back or with peace to stay where we are. Or maybe its the courage to experience something new!
I have been reading the book "Unglued" by Lysa TerKeurst. In the book Lysa says: "Remember, Comfort Zones don't have to be comfortable, they're just familiar." That is SO true! And I KNOW because I am following what God wants me to do; stepping out of my comfort zone and flying away from my "familiar habitat"! And I know he will give me the strength to soar! How do I know its what God wants me to do? I feel peace in each decision- in a moment where normally my anxiety and worry would be at an ultimate high!
How exhilarating...peace in my soul...new opportunities...for the good...for me...who loves God! I can't wait to spread my wings and see where this new opportunity takes me!
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Romans 8:28
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength.
They will soar high on wings like eagles.
They will run and not grow weary.
They will walk and not faint.
Isaiah 4:31
