Isaiah 48:17 – This is what the Lord says — your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go." (NIV)

Have you ever wondered how robins know when to leave their seasonal homes before the weather gets colder, or when to return again? When they return, how do they know to build a nest, and how?

What drives juvenile sockeye salmon to remain in fresh water until they are ready to migrate to the ocean, sometimes covering a distance of up to 1,600 kilometres and then dying after they spawn?

What drives baby turtles to make their way to the sea after hatching?

Or how do bears know when to hibernate and when to awaken again from their long winter's nap? Although scientists label these fixed patterns of behaviour as instinct, they were really implanted by their Creator.

What drives women and men in the police force to risk their lives to bring order and safety to the lives of strangers? What drives firefighters to enter burning buildings in order to save other human beings from harm? And what drives young men and women to join the armed forces and then sacrifice their lives for our freedom? The willingness of people to risk their lives on behalf of others is a desire that is also implanted in us by our Creator.

We were created in God's image, and deep in His heart exists an undying love for His precious human beings. Christ's passion for the human race ended on a cross. He freely sacrificed Himself for us so that we may become Christ's vessels on earth to bring peace, forgiveness, and healing into a world in dire need of love.

Prayer: Lord God, fill our hearts with love towards each other. Ignite our hearts with a passion to step out of our comfort zones in order to help our fellow human beings. Direct our daily walk. Where there is discord, may we bring harmony. Where there is fear, may we be vessels of understanding and relaters of forgiveness and love. We thank You for the women and men who have sacrificed their lives for Your kingdom to come. Amen.

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About the author:

Rosemary Hagedorn <rosyhagedorn@gmail.com>
Penetanguishene, Ontario, Canada
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