Life Through the Lens: A duck’s instinct

This post is the author’s personal opinion.

One, two, three, four … mum … 10, 11 … 18, 19 … 23, 24, dad!

I could not believe it.

I have never seen so many ducklings in one family, all merrily crossing the road, led by mum and urged on by dad.

Having crossed the road, everyone sat down and relaxed.

This had to be a photo opportunity.

As I got closer and they continued to ignore me, I discovered not all the ducklings were the same size; obviously not one clutch.

Slowly moving closer, I was confronted by a hissing, beak open, neck extended, dad with the clear message, “no closer, mate, these are mine!”

Intrigued, I did some research and discovered the average size clutch of young wood ducks is eight to 10.

Even more interestingly, it was claimed wild ducks very seldom will foster other hatchlings, often killing those who try to join the brood.

Clearly, not so in this case.

The way they all huddled together, they demonstrated a sense of belonging and relaxed safely being watched over by a very protective dad.

Jesus once said “where two or three gather in my name (trusting me), there I am with them” (Matthew 18:20).

If Jesus is there, so is the God of the Bible.

Remember, he says, “the father and I are one” (John 10:30).

The father duck’s instinct is to protect those who belong.

Our heavenly father’s instinct is to protect and care for all who consider that they belong.

None of those ducklings could do anything to make themselves part of that great family, but so long as they stuck together and accepted that sometimes Dad would shepherd them back to where they belonged, they remained in the brood and safe, even the adopted ones.

God the father’s instinct is to love, care for and keep his children safe.

Part of being safe is to listen to our father’s guidance and encouragement.

Essential guidance he gives is “believe in me, trust me; trust that when I say ‘I love you, no matter what you have done’, I mean it”.

Knowing the father’s love, we need not feel lonely, left out or fearful of what is happening in the world.

Be like the baby duck: relax, trust the promises of your heavenly dad and his love which is always there; it’s who he is.

If you’re not sure, talk to him about your uncertainty.

His answers may surprise you.

Dealing with uncertainties is one of his specialities.

You can help keep local stories like this one free for everyone to read. Subscribe to Murray Bridge News today and support your independent, locally owned news service, plus get access to exclusive stories you won’t find anywhere else, from just $5 a month.