Over the summer I have loved watching the swallows and swifts darting and then soaring over the water, and hiding in the eaves. They are so dainty and energetic and joyful to watch.

It is very still around the loch, when these gorgeous birds migrate south. I have a yearning for their company, but know that being thankful for the memory of them is enough.  I always find it astounding that such little birds fly south to Africa over the winter, sometimes flying 200 miles a day. They show such strength and perseverance, and seem to have an innate compass within.

The leaving of the swallows are a symbol of the end of summer, of a farewell to one season, and an invitation to embrace the new. Autumn might be a softer more mellow season, but it is equally beautiful. We are not to fear change, but to be prepared to move on, and to look for new possibilities in the landscape beyond.

The swallow, for me, symbolises that a fragile and diminutive being, can travel long distances, that seem way beyond their capacity. So God can use us, even when we feel fallible and inadequate, for His good and loving purposes. The secret is having the courage to set out, and then the wind of the Holy spirit guides us and carries us forward.

In Isaiah 40: verse 31 it says; ‘ those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles……..’ Whatever our circumstances, may we continue to place our hope in God, and find a strength in Him that carries us through.

Gracious God, Creator of all things, we thankyou for the birds of the air and the fish in the sea, for the incredible stories of animals in their habitats, and the rhythms of the earth. May we be attentive to the earth, be willing to protect it, and to learn from your creation. Thankyou for the way You speak to us through birds- swallows, sparrows and eagles -giving us courage to transition from one season to another, to know that You see us, and value us, and lead us in new directions. Lord Jesus Christ, as you called the disciples, reveal more of your purpose for us. Holy Spirit grant us perseverance, renew our trust, and equip us to explore new territory, in Jesus’ name, Amen.