While wandering through the prayer garden at Fuller today God literally sent me a parable. As I sat, I heard a sound. I looked up and in the rafters was a sparrow that had wandered in and was unable to get out. Time and time again it spread its wings to take flight only to run straight into the ceiling above it.
I thought, “If only there were some way I could communicate with this stupid bird and tell it to stop smacking into the ceiling before it gave itself a concussion. If only I could somehow show it the way out.”
God told me, “Stefan, you are that stupid bird. For all your strivings and ability you’re not realizing the potential that I have given you. Like that bird I have created you with the innate ability and desire to fly, yet if you have not the capacity to listen and receive instruction, you will never succeed.”
“O God, forasmuch as without three we are not able to please thee, mercifully grant that thy Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule in our hearts; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”
- Book of Common Prayer: 19th Sunday after Trinity
