The Kookaburra’s Song

One of the things I’ve learned to appreciate here in Australia is the abundant birdlife and how the birds have adapted to living amid the many developments that have intruded into their space. When I moved to Australia and heard the kookaburra for the first time, I wondered whether there were monkeys in the area.

The kookaburra’s strong bass vibrato sounded more like a monkey than a bird. Though small and with a rather plain coat, the kookaburra nevertheless sings a song that you cannot miss hearing. This morning, before any of the other birds could come to life, the kookaburra decided to start its song just outside my window.

I woke up and listened as it sang out loud and clear, oblivious that its song was crude and rough in comparison to the sweet, melodic songs of the many other birds it lives with. It sang from its heart at the break of dawn.

There was no assurance that this kookaburra would live to see the next day, as many a bird has been hit by passing vehicles. But today, it sang with all its might. As I lay in bed, I couldn’t help but think about the kookaburra’s song.

Although it was not yet the heart of winter, it was still cold.

I snuggled under my quilt and talked with the Lord.

The day was breaking for me, too, but on a very different tone. Unlike the kookaburra, who didn’t care about its natural beauty, I was conscious of myself and how I may be perceived in this new country. This morning, however, the kookaburra taught me that I must use my voice for God wherever I may be and regardless of how I define myself, be that as a foreigner, woman, mother, student, or something else.

What about your voice? Is there anything that is holding you back from singing? Are you able to lift your voice in praise to God so that it rings out loud and clear for His glory? Lord, touch my lips that I may sing Your praises, for You dwell in the midst of praise. May my voice be used for You and for Your glory.

Amen.

Grace Paulson