The
Swallows of San Juan Capistrano are a flock of birds that reside on
an island off the coast of California. Each year they migrate to
South America and stay the winter in Argentina. Some say their route
to Argentina involves a length of about a thousand miles, over open
ocean. Swallows cannot fly a thousand miles without resting, yet
they make it there every year! How do they do it? An unproven myth
says that the swallows begin each trip by first stopping in fields
near the coast, grasping sticks in their claws and carrying them on
their journey. At some point over a calm part of the ocean these
resourceful birds supposedly drop their sticks and land on them to
rest! The myth says that, after resting, they leave the sticks
behind and continue to their destination. If the myth is true, it is
a marvelous capability for survival that God gave these small
creatures!
God also provided a way for us to survive. He
wants us to grasp the reality of Jesus’ death on the cross and to
understand that we must hold on to it if we are to survive for
eternity. I have discovered that in a world with challenges as rough
as an ocean, the Old Rugged Cross will float quite nicely. I pray
that you will get a grip on it daily and rest. Romans 8:38-39 says,
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor
demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither
height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to
separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Common Sense Application
1. Since the swallows survived with what they
took with them, you will survive the same way. Begin by writing on
small cards any scripture verses, prayer reminders, inspirational
quotes or spiritual goals on which you want to concentrate. Place
some around the house in easily seen locations as reminders of what
to think about. Take some with you when you go out, and read them
during breaks or lunch. Change the cards as often as necessary to
keep fresh ideas and spiritual goals in your mind. If your situation
permits, take your Bible everyday and visit with God through His
Word.
2. Take more good spiritual stuff with you by
committing yourself to grow as a Christian in every area of your
life.
3. Arrange to meet with Christian friends
during breaks or lunch whenever possible, for the purpose of
encouraging and teaching each other; take the good stuff back to
work with you.