I saw him as he was running towards the road.  A turkey, in a frantic effort to launch himself into the air, came within mere inches of my windshield before gaining enough upward momentum to clear it.

While this event happened in a split second, it felt like the turkey and I were locked in a slo-mo scene from a movie. 

His running motion was labored and looked more like a disjointed wobble. His lift-off was awkward and cumbersome as his pudgy body listed from side to side.  His mouth was wide open and looked like he was trying to holler, “Clear the runway!” to the rest of the world.

The image was almost cartoonish.  I smiled as I continued driving down the road and thought to myself, “Poor thing, he was really trying to fly.”

Fly he did, though.  Granted, it wasn’t for long and he didn’t go very high.  But, he flew!  Sure, somewhere in the forest, a hawk was probably rolling his eyes, but that turkey flew!

I don’t know about you, but there are many days when I can relate to this turkey.  Days when it barely feels like I’m getting my feet off the ground.  I want to soar, but it just isn’t happening.

Ever had those days?  Days where you sleep through your morning alarm?  Days where your children have more energy than you have caffeine?  Days where your car keys are playing hide-and-seek as your list of errands and appointments calls your name?

I have good news, friends!

God promises to help us soar like eagles as we lean on Him.

One of my favorite Bible verses comes from Isaiah 40.  “He [God] gives strength to the faint and strengthens the powerless…those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles…” (vs. 29 & 31)

While I’m not an expert in fowl flights, flapping, or fluttering, I can attest that God’s word is true and He is faithful.  I’ve also witnessed eagles in the air and there’s almost nothing more majestic and graceful.  They clearly have air navigation mastered as they soar to heights that other birds only dream of.

If you feel like your day is in turkey mode, take a minute and ask God to strengthen you like an eagle.  Better than anyone else, He can teach you to lift off, strengthen you to fly, and sustain you as you soar!

Until next time, Grace and Glory!