A parable is an earthly story with a spiritual meaning. Jesus used it convey many aspects of what it meant to be Kingdom minded. He also used it to show us the heart of God. The parable of the prodigal son comes to mind when we think of God’s mercy and how much He values every individual no matter the mistakes and pitfalls.

You might be wondering why I coined this blog the parable of the squirrel. I live in a semi-woody neighborhood. Squirrels, beavers, deer and foxes trot along from time to time. The squirrels had a field day when I used to cater at home. My porch was big enough to handle 4 outdoor stoves so when I had a big order, I would cook away. The squirrels knew when I had a catering order. You would see them peeking from the forest, waiting for me to toss some rice or chicken. Let’s not talk about the birds. Different species built nests on the trees in my backyard. They were close to food source!

Here is the parable. Early 2012 was a very difficult year in our household. My husband had been unemployed for more than a year, our house was in foreclosure. My immigration status had been screwed by Homeland Security. It was a whirlwind of storms. On this April morning, I was in the kitchen cleaning when I saw a squirrel through the sliding door that led to the patio. The squirrel perched comfortably and was eating a chicken drumstick. This squirrel looked unperturbed and satisfied.  I was jealous. Suddenly I lashed out at a squirrel that could barely hear me: “who gave you the right to sit so comfy on my porch eating my chicken?!”

Then I heard the still small voice: “you can sit comfortably in me like the squirrel if you want to. It’s your choice.” It was a soft prompting but I heard it loud and clear. I broke down and cried. I was so engulfed in the storm I had lost sight of God’s presence in the midst of the challenges.

Fast-forward to October 2017, I see another squirrel perching on my patio eating a green fruit with ease. I had undergone a full mastectomy in July and was well into radiation therapy.  I was tired. My strength was gone.  Fear was creeping in. Despite my current situation and battle with cancer, I was not angry this time. I smiled. It was as though the Lord was reminding me of what He said 5 years prior – I can choose to rest and trust in Him or allow the current situation to overwhelm me.

The crowning moment was during church service in November This time, a toddler girl, who normally would NEVER allow me to carry her walked towards me. Her two hands were lifted high, signaling that I carry her. I was surprised… I summoned every strength I had and carried her. I continued in praise and worship and she slept peacefully on my shoulder not long after.  Then I heard that still small voice again: “You see how this girl lifted her hands in surrender? I need you to do that. You see how she is sleeping peacefully? I want you to lay calm and peaceful like that for the rest of your life.”

Whatever the pastor preached that Sunday did not matter. I had received a word in due season. That was my word for the rest of the year and the rest of my life. God loves you. He has your interest at heart. Cast your cares, worries and anxieties on Him today. He truly cares.