Risk Nothing, Have Nothing

He stands alone in the face of extreme danger, without regard for his own life.  He is exposed to all adversaries, all while forsaking his own safety.  Thus, he provides the necessary security to assure that the little ones will have a future and a hope.  

This picture of devotion and loyalty does not come from the pages of human history or great accolades of courage.  

No, the inspiration of this tale, the truth of this deed lies in the simple and humble Sentinel Quail.  He lives, often unnoticed and yet whose impact ensures the future generations of his own kind.

Isn’t it true that we all aspire to act with courage in the face of danger?

In the deepest thoughts of our heart, we want to pass on the baton to our children so that they will prevail with integrity and devotion to God and country in the next generation. We want our children to stand for that which is right and noble.  If it were a question of losing our freedom, we also would be willing to risk everything to stay free.

You will discover by diligent watching that Christ has revealed Himself in the commonplace surrounding your home.  This could be any community that represents the high ideals of leadership and integrity, so necessary for our present-day society. But, it is in the underbrush surrounding this commonplace setting that we see a picture of these ideals in action.

If you wait patiently in hiding and watch carefully, you will soon notice a lone quail taking his position atop some branch or log.  He is the Sentinel Quail and this lonely vigil marks the demonstration of his courage and service to his own community.  

The Sentinel’s story reminds me of Joshua, the leader of God’s nation Israel, after Moses died.  In old age, he stood before the nation to warn and encourage them by stating, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” Joshua 24:16.  When Joshua first assumed command from Moses, he was not unlike us in feeling the fears that made him doubt whether he was truly God’s man for this hour.  God spoke four times in chapter one to Joshua, reassuring him to be strong and of good courage and to not be afraid, for He was with him.  

We must remind ourselves to be like the Sentinel Quail and Joshua.  Do not be afraid, for God is with those who trust Him.

 Pastor Mike

I painted this Sentinel Quail in 2014 when my mother-in-law moved to Heaven.