Editor’s Note:
Originally penned 11 years ago, this reflection remains close to my heart. Sometimes the smallest moments—like a fallen sparrow—carry the biggest lessons. I’ve revisited and refreshed this piece for Memoirs of a Black Girl, but its core message of faith in action stands timeless.
The Baby Sparrow That Taught Me to Fly: A Lesson in Faith and Works
This past Sunday, as my husband and I stepped outside, ready to run our usual errands, we stumbled upon a scene that stopped us cold—a tiny, lifeless baby sparrow on our front porch.
There it lay, still and silent, fallen from its nest. Beak first. Wings not yet strong enough to catch the wind.
The initial shock gripped us, but duty called, and together, we gently lifted the fragile body and laid it to rest.
But as we moved through this small act of care, my mind turned over one thought again and again:
That baby sparrow had tried.
It could’ve stayed tucked away in the comfort of its nest, waiting, hesitating. But something deep within told it, You were made to fly. Even in failure, the bird had more faith than many of us muster. It trusted its wings before they were proven.
The sparrow didn’t wait for certainty.
It acted on faith.
And that is the essence of true faith, isn’t it? Not staying nestled in the safety of the familiar. Not waiting until everything feels perfect. But leaping, even if the landing is unsure.
James 2:17 reminds us:
“So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.” (NLT)
Faith must move. It must breathe, stretch, and take flight—even when our wings feel small.
That baby sparrow lived the Word. It didn’t just believe in its wings. It used them.
So here’s my gentle nudge to you, friend:
What’s your nest?
What dream or calling have you tucked away, waiting for the “right” moment?
Sometimes faith means falling forward. Sometimes it means trusting that even in the stumble, you’re closer to soaring.
Scripture Takeaways:
- James 2:17 (NLT): “So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.”
- Matthew 10:29-31 (NLT): “What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it… So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.”
- Hebrews 11:1 (NLT):“Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.”
If this reflection spoke to you, drop a comment or share it with someone who needs a little nudge to spread their wings. 💜
© 2025, Lela Fagan. All rights reserved.
