Homecoming for the Wrens (06/04/2025)

Yesterday, as I was sitting on the porch, I heard them before I saw them. But I knew that beautiful, unique song. The wrens had returned finally. It is something I look forward to all spring. I followed the song and found the first atop the four-plex wren house my husband built just for our special guests. Then I found the second on the limb above. I sat for the longest times, watching them go in and out of the tiny holes, bringing their nest materials, and singing as they worked.

Why do I so love the wrens? Well, there are several reasons. The first is their song which is so beautiful and so unexpected from such a tiny creature. Their song has always been able to brighten any moment I am blessed to hear it. The second reason I love the wrens is their size – they are so small and yet their size does not limit them nor deter them. They do all that other birds do who are much larger than them. And the third is the way they tend the nest and nestlings, often aunts forgo a brood of their own in order to help with another bird’s brood. They are altruistic. They are selfless – concerned for the well being of others. Finally, they are brave. I watch them scold and even dive at invaders multiple times their size.

 Why do I so love the wrens? They inspire my discipleship. I pray that I am as joyful as them no matter what. I pray that I am never intimidated by others because of my height or age, but rather have the courage to fight for others. And I pray that I am able to put the well-being of others above any selfish desires.

When I think of the wrens and my discipleship together, I think of Jesus and His love of parables, using the ordinary in the world to help unlock the extraordinary. Discipleship in the modern age can at times seem like a wren seeking to usher in new life in the nest while surrounded by powerful, threatening foes. In other words, being a disciple in the modern world comes with real challenges. Yet we must persevere. We’ve been given a mission that is bigger than we are. We’ve been chosen by Christ to bring Him to others and others to Him and to care for one another, especially the most vulnerable, loving them as He has loved us.

And so, this morning, I am so very tickled that the wrens are back. I thank my husband for building them a wonderful 4-plex house. I thank the LORD for the idea of wrens and for their charming personalities and beautiful song. It’s going to be a great summer.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.