Eagle Message

“Are we going to church today? We missed last Sunday.” My husband Alan inquired.

“I’m kind of tired this morning. But, there’s no excuse for not attending. Yes, we’re going.” I responded.

When I woke on a recent Sunday morning, exhaustion from holiday preparations and gatherings had begun to catch up with me. The previous weeks had been filled with busyness, laughter, love, and joy. Now, things were beginning to quiet and my schedule was returning to the normal routine.

My body was tired from the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Each activity has been a blessing. Sharing time with family and friends had brought fun and laughter. Wrapping presents, giving presents, opening those gifts, and then, enjoying delicious meals together helped create precious memories.
Church events included singing favorite hymns, meeting new people, and sharing time with family and friends. Meaningful sermons and Bible study helped remind us of the true meaning of the season.

Yet, I was tired and the urge to stay in bed and snuggle under the warm blanket was pulling at me. Pausing to give thanks to God for His glorious day, another feeling tugged at my heart.
The need to attend church service and give thanks to God for His love and glory began to energize my body and give me the strength to rise and shine.

Throwing back the covers on the bed, I rose and smiled. “Yes, we’re going to church.”
Alan was enjoying a bowl of cereal with milk when I entered the dining room. His smile greeted me as I began preparing my toast and chocolate milk.

“Today is a beautiful day. The sun is shining. I bet the wind is a little stronger on the island, but right now, everything is calm here.” Alan and I often notice the difference in temperature and wind between Mount Pleasant and Sullivan's Island. When we cross the connector bridge to head to church, the atmosphere changes.

Completing the morning routine, we were dressed and ready to go to church. As we rode, I commented how I was glad we were going to be at church today. “I can always take a nap later in the afternoon. But, this morning, I need to be in God’s house and give Him praise.”

We arrived at the church parking lot. After finding a parking spot and exiting the vehicle, I gazed at the sky and let the warm sun kiss my face. Right as I looked up, a beautiful bald eagle flew over our path.
In awe and excitement, I said, “Look, look, an eagle. A message from God.”

“Thank You Lord. You know my Daddy loved eagles. If I had not been here for church service, I would not have seen the glorious and majestic bird. The reminders of Your love are always present. You always know best.”

My heart was full of love as we entered the sanctuary. I continued to praise God for the blessing of seeing the eagle. If I had chosen to stay home because I was tired, I would have missed seeing the eagle and the opportunity to thank God for that eagle.

How can you thank God today? Have you felt a nudge from God? Did you follow His lead?

Have a blessed day,
Happy New Year,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson

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