Soaring Like an Eagle

Years ago while visiting Alaska; I bought a print of a majestic eagle. It is framed with a comment by the photographer, John Allen. It says, “It is no accident that
starlings, sparrow and pigeons choose to live in cities. Ask any eagle.” I agree.

I just love those big birds. I think it is because of the way they fly. Apparently there are three methods of flight. Ornithologists indicate that flapping is one of those methods. Birds like hummingbirds keep their wings in constant motion and counteract gravity. Flapping can keep you in the air, but it sure is an awkward means of flight.

Some birds glide. It is certainly more graceful than flapping. But in order for a bird to soar, they have to build up speed and then coast. It won’t take long for them to run out of lift. Gliding just does not last very long.

And then there is soaring. I am told that just a few birds can actually soar and my eagles are definitely capable of soaring. The eagle’s wings are very strong
and they can easily catch currents of warm air and achieve great heights in a hurry. They have been clocked at up to 80 M.P.H. without a single flap. But, however effortless it may look, the truth is they are soaring on invisible columns of rising air.

The scriptures have things to say about eagles too. On Mount Sinai, the Lord reminded Moses that He had indeed carried Israel on eagle’s wings as He brought them out of Egypt (Ex. 19:4). And as David was listing all the benefits of serving Yahweh in Ps. 103, he remarks that the Lord “…satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”

And Isaiah reminds us that “those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isa. 40:31).

As we get this New Year off and running, it might be a good time to stop the endless frenetic pace of life and choose to do some soaring. Let’s all consider leaning into those invisible streams of air that the Lord uses to provide lift in our lives. Let’s mount up on wings of eagles.

I am betting it is a great view from up there!

By His Grace and for His Glory,
Sherry L. Worel