You Were Made to Fly -- Use Your Wings!

While digging through my father's old files, I found some interesting clippings from The Wesleyan Methodist Magazine.  These articles, written over five decades ago by Dr. Oliver G. Wilson, struck a deep chord with me.  Although culture has changed considerably since that time, the essence and need of humanity remains the same.  We all need to belong, to be loved, and to be encouraged.  This is true for all people at all times, in every culture.

One delightful article told of Dr. Wilson’s friend who, driving down the street, saw a mallard sitting on the sidewalk.

The gentleman was intrigued by the unusual sight.  He stopped his vehicle, got out and approached the sitting duck.  Alarmed, the duck sprang to his feet and started running as fast as his little ducky legs could carry him.  The man decided to follow the worried bird.

Anxiously looking back over his shoulder, the terrified mallard ran faster, and the man sped up behind him.

Finally, after a running a couple of city blocks, the duck remembered he had wings.  Flap!  Flap!  Flap!  Flap!  He soared into the sky and out of harm’s reach.

Dr. Wilson then made the astute observation that many of us, facing fear, are like sitting ducks on the side of the road.  We waddle around in discouragement, paralyzed by anxiety.  In the middle of harried situations, we forget that we were created to fly. 

Use your wings!

Use your wings, if you want to move beyond the earth-bound things.

Use your wings if you hope to soar above life’s adversities.

Use your wings!  Instead of running away from your troubles, fly above them!

What are the wings of the human spirit?  Faith and Love!  These are God’s greatest gifts to us and they will help us rise above any difficult situation.  If you have enough faith and love, you can overcome just about anything.

“They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.  They shall mount up with wings as eagles.  They shall run and not grow weary.  They shall walk and not faint.”  Isaiah 40: 31

Use your wings!