We have talked a lot about how God gives us signs in nature of His love for us. Did you know the Cardinal or Redbird was also one? Most people know about the dove representing the Holy Spirit. The pure white dove. The blood red of the cardinal is symbolic of the living blood of our Savior Jesus Christ, that saved us and gives us eternal life. The blood of love that provides hope and encourages us to have faith. Cardinals symbolize faith, hope, and love along with the precious blood of Jesus.
Cardinals are beautiful birds. The male has stunning red feathers while the female is muted to help keep her safer. They are monogamous and mate for life. Isn’t that awesome? No divorces or running around for them. The male takes his role seriously. He provides food and protection for his lady 24/7. He is no pushover but a fierce warrior ready to defend his wife against predators. The couple harmonizes perfectly making beautiful music together. What a great team.
The other morning while my little dog was moseying around the yard, I caught a glimpse of Mr. & Mrs. Cardinal on a branch. They would sing to each other and then sat really close together. Their heads nuzzled and beaks pecked. Love was in the air. It was mesmerizing. Then Mr. C flew off to gather food or whatever male birds do while the Mrs. stayed home. She looked around for him and seemed restless. Instead of flying off Mrs. C chirped and sang. Voila! Mr. C was back. He sat beside her, comforted her, and nuzzled her a bit. This time she was fine when he left. Another reminder for me that God is alway near. He might be up in Heaven but always hears me when I call. He is just a prayer away to give me the comfort, guidance, or help that I need.
Cardinals and blood have long been symbols for life, and for Christians everlasting, eternal life. Also the cardinal is symbolic of faith, hope and love. These symbols connect the beautiful bird to living faith, and that is what we should do. Live our faith. When life gets depressing, dark, and lonely, there is always hope. We need to have faith in the One that loves us. We need to pray. He has sent many reminders to help us. Look around. It won’t be long until you see a cardinal. It is a symbol of Jesus’ precious, cleansing blood, of eternal life, of faith, hope, and love. Cardinals are paired for life. God loves you for eternity, too. Remember that when you see a redbird…….and even when you don’t.
“Knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.” IPeter 1:18-19 ESV
Thursday’s Red Recipe:
Aunt Jean’s Cherry Delight
1 pkg. graham crackers, crushed
1/2 c. butter, melted
1/4 c. sugar
1 pkg. Dream Whip*
1 c. powdered sugar
1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1 can cherry pie filling
*original recipe but now I use Cool Whip
Mix graham crackers, butter and sugar and put into 9 x 13 inch pan. Prepare Dream Whip as on package. Add sugar, vanilla, and cream cheese; spread over crust. Spread 1 can cherry pie filling on top and chill.
Abba's Prayer Warrior Princess 