Nuthatches of Martin Top

As I walked to chapel last week, I stopped by a large but denuded broadleaf tree at Howgill. So many birds were fluttering hither and thither and singing away, that it was a pleasure to break the journey. One little bird which I saw was the nuthatch. Its distinctive call and its habit of scuttling down trees, headfirst, make it stand out from its neighbours. Although it enjoys insects in the summer, it feasts on seeds and nuts in the winter, often hiding them in a tree’s bark to return to them later, which may be the origin of its name. Not unlike a squirrel or a coaltit, it saves up excess food gathered in times of plenty for those coming days of scarcity.

It might be suggested that this is not a good example for the Christian. We know that the Hebrews of the exodus were not to collect more manna than their needs required, and that rich people's bulging pockets hinder their squeezing into heaven. Yet a savings account may bespeak modest living and sensible planning, which a sobre and godly lifestyle should generally warrant. Nevertheless, the Lord Jesus cautions against stockpiling wealth, but not good deeds:

but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. (Matthew 6:20).

A savings account, or putting money aside for a rainy day, may be wise practices, evidence of a godly living, but performing acts of service is essential. So be as resourceful and efficient as the nuthatch, but as care-free as a sparrow.

Image by 995645 from Pixabay