Makes the Deer give Birth

Forgive the poor photography. I was using a standard mobile phone and my subjects would tolerate no further approach. Just under those trees was a family of fallow deer. Belton Park in Lincolnshire is popular with visitors, so these creatures were not as cautious as their cousins found elsewhere, but they are certainly not tame. In Psalm 29:9, we read:

The voice of the Lord makes the deer give birth,

And strips the forests bare;

And in His temple everyone says, “Glory!”

The psalm is all about the strength and power of God’s terrifying voice, yet here it is employed in the gentle and careful act of urging the birth of so timid and discreet a creature. One may give birth as a result of fear or terror, yet here, the terrifying thunders of heaven are used in the kind and tender encouragement of a doe to fulfil the Creator’s initial command. The roaring Lion of Judah also whispered to Elijah; He whose voice is like many, rushing waters, gently bids you come to Him in a volume quieter even than a whisper:

“Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:29-30