Daily Devotional

“The ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning, and bread and meat in the evening; and he drank from the brook” (1 Kings 17:6). 

One of the first birds domesticated by humans was the pigeon. They are quite intelligent and have even been taught to recognize every letter of the alphabet. Some have learned simple math skills. 

Researchers have discovered their ability to recognize the faces of people who are nice to them (and avoid people who are not so nice). Pigeons can travel at speeds up to 100 miles per hour and will, just for fun, do backflips in mid-air. 

While some people despise this bird, the domestic pigeon has saved people’s lives. A famous homing pigeon named Cheri Ami (French for “dear friend”) helped to save the Lost Battalion of the 77th Division in the Battle of the Argonne, during World War I. On October 3, 1918, more than 500 men were trapped and surrounded by the enemy. Twice messages were written and sent out by pigeon, but both times they were shot down. 

Finally, the pigeon Cheri Ami was tagged with a message. When she took flight, bullets started zipping all around her. She was shot down, but then managed to take flight again. The faithful pigeon finally arrived at her loft in division headquarters 25 miles away and saved the lives of 194 people. In the process, she had been shot through the breast, blinded in one eye, was covered in blood, and had one leg hanging on by a tendon. She was later awarded a medal for her bravery. 

When Elijah hid from wicked King Ahab, he would have died, except ravens brought him food each morning and evening. God used a common bird to protect the life of one of His servants. Today, through the Holy Spirit, you may receive spiritual nourishment to keep you strong and safe. Look up and receive the bread of heaven. 

Lord, this world is a dry and barren land; sustain me today by Your Word.