Hi, all! Just a thought to help start your weekend.

Going on two weeks now, the little fellow you see pictured here has visited me every single morning without fail. As I sit typing this right now, he is chirping loudly and pecking away at the window. I believe he is seeing his reflection and is trying to defend his territory for his little lady, who has been sitting quietly in the bush behind him most mornings.

Every single morning, he has arrived around 7 a.m. This morning it was about a quarter ’til. The chirping and pecking begin, and he won’t let up for two or three hours. I pull the curtains back, hoping to change the lighting or glare so that he doesn’t see his reflection and want to fight. But it does very little good. He is focused. He is determined. He is relentless. And he is tireless.

Peck, peck, peck. Chirp, chirp, chirp. Over and over. Persistent, defending his loved one and keeping her safe from all that might cause harm. If only we were that focused and had that same work ethic.

Every single morning, without fail, for all of my 55-plus years, I have opened my eyes (and ears), knowing that the Lord was already there, waiting for my conversation with Him. He hangs around, talking to me even when I try to tune Him out, and even when I just don’t listen. He is protecting me from harm I don’t even realize is there. He talks to me. He sings love songs to me. He remains close by — not for my entertainment, but for my companionship.

Without this little cardinal, my morning today would be so much quieter. The window at the end of the hall would be dark, with curtains drawn. The noise would be gone. I’d be all alone.

Without Him, life would be even quieter, darker, and lonely. “Without Him, I could do nothing. Without Him, I’d surely fail. Jesus. Oh, Jesus. Do you know Him today? Do not turn Him away!”

He’s there, talking to you even now. Are you paying attention? Are you listening? Begin your days with Him. You’ll never be the same again.

Just a thought. ’Til later.

Brad Campbell can be reached at mastah.pastah@yahoo.com.