I know things are bad when a random video in my Facebook feed causes me to sob uncontrollably. But it was the penguin.
This BBC Earth video shows a group of Emperor Penguin chicks. Emperors are the largest penguin species, so even these "chicks" are almost 3 feet tall. They bumble along together, trying to evade a Giant Petrel, a large, predatory bird that is hoping to eat them. The tubby penguin chicks run, and then form a defensive circle, and THEN - you will see one chick raise himself up as tall as he can and protectively stretch out his little wings in front of his companions. That fluffy penguin chick stands in defiance to the hungry, murderous bird.
And then an Adélie penguin - a totally different species, so not a parent to any of these chicks - runs over and stands between the bird and the Emperor chicks.
Why can't our leaders be more like penguins?!
But we know there are many of us, dare I say millions of us, who are standing defiant and strong to protect one another. We are running towards the danger to defend the vulnerable.
This Sunday we will hear Jesus say: "Jerusalem, how often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings!" Even Jesus knew the power of a protective bird! So when we are feeling angry, terrified, outraged, despairing, or overwhelmed, let us remember the penguin and the hen, and the ever-present protection of God in Jesus.
I lift up my eyes to the hills-- from where shall my help come?
My help comes from the Lord...
Psalm 121
