May 16, 2009


  • Isaiah 42:6-8

      "I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness;
           I will take hold of your hand.
           I will keep you and will make you
           to be a covenant for the people
           and a light for the Gentiles,
    to open eyes that are blind,
           to free captives from prison
           and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.
    "I am the LORD; that is my name!
           I will not give my glory to another or my praise to idols.


    I am a bird in a glass caged house. Peering with watchful eyes, I see the lights and hear sounds but cannot touch outside my atmosphere. I am secure; but, I am alone. I am contained, unleashed; yet I am a prisoner in this safety state. People can look at me. They can tap on the glass and motion to me. But, all I can do is stare back. I want them to hear my voice. I sing melodies that cannot be heard. They echo round my little cage, but do not affect anyone’s ears but mine.

    I have always longed to escape this state. Fear has held me back. When I feel the bravest, it creeps upon me like a looming cloud. I see people holding hands, exchanging conversation and long for what they have. Is safety in a glass caged house better than living life anew? Chances life might hurt me, always tie my hands. With one little peck this cage will break, and my wings will expand. I long to see my wingspan, but the “what if’s” leave me cotton mouthed. Bravery. It takes someone brave to break free. Am I, this little bird, strong and courageous enough to leave security?

    Like a raindrop on my cage, I hear a voice so pleasant. Peck away little treasure. I want you to fly. May you chase the freedom that was purchased for you! You are brave. Break the glass cage. Step out into unknown refuge, unbridled terrain.

    I peck. The sounds pierce my ears. The cage cracks. My heart pounds, doubt begins to creep. I choose bravery, I sing. The Divine has called me treasured. I want to taste the ocean and leap in valleys of pleasure.

    Air, so sweet infiltrates my case. I can now feel the sunshine I have been looking out forever. Step one—I take it. Unshielded by glass, I walk. My wings begin to flutter. Feathers, no longer chained. The sky is welcoming me. Is this what freedom feels like? Fear diluted, sweet confidence is gained.