A Snow bunting and other interuptions
Over the past few days, we celebrated my son Jake’s 10th birthday three times! On Saturday, one of the celebrations was a treasure hunt around Hamworthy, including the beautiful Hamworthy Park. While the boys raced off to find their first clue, I noticed a group of people with big cameras near the promenade. Curious, I walked over and saw that they were all focused on a small bird hopping around in the sand. It was about the size of a sparrow, with soft brown and white feathers. I took a little photo too. Later, I learned it was called a "snow bunting."
Snow buntings aren’t usually found on English beaches. They’re winter birds, often seen in much colder places. Seeing one here felt like such a special moment—a little piece of beauty where I didn’t expect it. It made me think about how life can surprise us with moments of wonder, just like this bird. Sometimes, things we didn’t plan for turn out to be just what we need.
That snow bunting made me think about the New Year. A new year can be like that bird—an invitation to pause, notice, and enjoy what’s around us. It’s easy to get caught up in plans and rushing through life, but what if we slowed down and looked for the small, surprising blessings in our days? What if we spent this year keeping an eye out for those special little moments, like snow buntings?
The Bible shows us that God often uses interruptions to teach us something important or to guide us in new ways. Think about Jonah, whose plans were interrupted by a big storm and a giant fish, or Mary, who was visited by an angel and given news that changed her life forever. These interruptions weren’t easy, but they became opportunities to grow, obey, and see God working in bigger ways. When interruptions happen, instead of feeling frustrated or afraid, we can ask, “What is God trying to show me here? How is this moment shaping me or leading me into something new?”
There’s a verse in the Bible from Lamentations that says, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22-23). This reminds me that every day is a new start, full of fresh chances and kindness from God. We don’t have to wait for something big to happen to feel hopeful. Instead, we can look for the good in each day, even if it’s something small, like seeing a bird on the beach.
So here’s my challenge for the New Year: look for the snow buntings in your life. Pay attention to the little joys and surprises that pop up. These moments remind us that we’re part of something much bigger. And as we notice these things, let’s make space in our lives for wonder, thankfulness, and the kind of grace that shows up fresh every single morning.
