Good things come to those who put in the effort!

In the strip of garden at one side of my home, I have erected a bird-feeding station. This provides a variety of foodstuffs for small birds, as well as fresh water. This morning, as I watched, one particular little bird was perched on the edge of the tray that contains breadcrumbs - as and when available. Just above it, and slightly to the left, was a fat-ball holder. The bird attempted to fly up to the holder, in order to access the fat. However, it appeared to be unwilling to perform the (to a bird) minor acrobatics that would have enabled it to latch on to the holder, and take its fill of the fat. Instead, after just two attempts, it settled for whatever meagre pickings were available in the crumb tray! Such a variety of food - fat balls; fat block; suet, peanuts, sunflower hearts - and it only received a few of yesterday's breadcrumbs!

I couldn't help but think that this was a clear illustration of human life. So often, there are riches (not necessarily financial!) available to us, if we will put in the effort - but we can't be bothered, and end up settling for second- (or third-) best. We know that if we put in some more effort to our school, or college/university, studies, then we will obtain worthwhile qualifications - but we decide that watching TV, or playing computer games is easier. We know that working a little harder at our job, and constantly seeking to be a better employer can lead to promotion - but its easier to be a "clock-watcher", and to do the minimum required of us. We know that we could make a little effort that could improve our relationship with that grumpy next-door-neighbour (or workmate) - but we prefer to just ignore the person. Breadcrumbs!

It is also true for those of us who refer to ourselves as disciples of Jesus. We know that there is great benefit in spending time reading, and studying, the written Word of God - but it's easier to sit down with a good novel that makes no intellectual, or faith, demand upon us. We know that a solid prayer-life draws us into a deeper communion with Father God - but it's easier to just browse the internet. We know that our spiritual growth will be enhanced if we spend meaningful time with fellow-believers - but it's easier to go to the cinema, or wherever. Breadcrumbs!

That little bird will never know how much its unwillingness to put in some effort cost it. It will never know how much that same lack of effort challenged me! I hope that you have been challenged as well!