Jesus the chicken

March 28, 2022 (Monday)

 

On Jesus’ final trip to Jerusalem, some Pharisees attempt to convince Jesus not to go because Herod wanted to kill him. There is no evidence that this was Herod’s intent. Yet, Jesus responded, "Jesus said to them, "Go, tell that fox, ‘Look, I’m throwing out demons and healing people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will complete my work." [Luke 13:32 CEB]

 

The "fox" comment sets up an interesting visual lesson. But first, consider what Jesus is saying. His intent was to toss demons out and heal people. It’s as if these are the inevitable outcomes of Jesus’ life. It makes me wonder about the outcome of the believer’s life. The other piece of information is about the third day. I’m guessing they interpret this as Jesus taking three days to arrive at Jerusalem. I like to think Jesus is referring to His resurrection on the third day.

 

To counter the image of the “fox,” Jesus proclaims, “How often I have wanted to gather your people just as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings. But you didn’t want that.” [Luke 13:34b CEB] The image of the mother hen, in American culture is not exactly a positive one. However, Jesus is talking about the self-sacrificing love of sacrifice.

 

When danger is near, the hen will “cluck” to call her chicks. She does not run to protect them. Their defense comes from running to her. She will use her beak and life to protect them. It is the teeth and claws of the fox against the unconditional and unyielding love of a mother. The hen may die, but nothing will harm the chicks.

 

The declaration that they were unwilling to find shelter under God’s wings is sad. In Psalm 91 we see an image of those who “dwells in the shelter of the Most High” (91:1). We read, “He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.” [Psalm 91:4 NLT] Ultimately, God’s people will shelter under His wings. We will take refuge in the promises of God. They will be like armor. They will be like a protective shield. To get to us, the enemy must first go through our Heavenly Father.

 

Our tendency, when under attack, is to forget the one thing that will protect us the most. Paul called it the shield of faith (see Ephesians 6:16). When in battle, faced with the choice of taking up a shield or a sword first, always take up the shield. We cling to God’s faithful promises, determined to allow God to cover us.

 

“The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe.” [Proverbs 18:10 NLT]