
BIRDS
...At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him.
Matthew 3:16

Engage in Wonder
Why do you think God chose a dove to represent the Holy Spirit coming down on Jesus at baptism?
How do the stories of Noah's Ark & Jesus' baptism compare or contrast one another?
Do you think God was intentionally showing contrast when he made birds to fly "in the expanse" and fish that swim in the darkness of the sea?
Why do you think God gave birds wings?
At the first sight of sunrise, birds sing out in what is called the "dawn chorus". They also use the sun to orient their flight and migration. Do you think God intended them to be so dependent on the sun?
God uses the metaphor of his protective care being like a mother hen gathering his chicks (Matt 23:37) and being the one who renews our strength as though we were soaring on eagle's wings (Isaiah 40:31).
What do those illustrations teach you about God and his creation of birds?
Testimony: Share your story about a time when you experienced your weakness was renewed by placing your hope & trust in Jesus.

How do birds illustrate God's story?
Print the complete Bible Study that is perfect for discussion with your home fellowship group or family.
--- Activities to awaken your child-like imagination ---
blueprints
Roughly sketch or jot down notes to design a bird and nest that could have been included in God's story. Give it interesting features and abilities.
creation
Using a creative artform of your choice, use your blueprints to showcase your imaginative design and the way it could have appeared in God's story.
testimony
Reflect on a time when you experienced or witnessed a weakness being renewed by placing your hope & trust in Jesus.
storytelling
Using your reflections as the inspiration, showcase your testimony using any storytelling style you prefer. Optionally, include the bird you designed in your tale.
