Notes from Yukiko’s Desk

Dear AGAC whanau,

Last week when I was walking my dog, Louis, in Kelly Park near Holy Cross, I happened to see Mother hen walking with baby chicks in the bush. I have seen Mother duck and ducklings many times, but it was for the first time to see the hen family, so I was super excited!

“Follow me, stay close!” It was clear to me that Mother hen ensured her chicks following her. They responded with a chorus of little peeps as they scurry along, keeping up. The scene made me smile. (Louis wanted to chase and scared them though!)

The primary roles of the mother hen are to to care for and protect her chicks. She provides warmth, shelter, and security. She also trains and guides and makes her chicks capable enough to survive and fend for themselves in the world. Yet, just like humans, not all chicks are apparently sensitive and obedient to their mothers’ voice and behaviour. There are those who prefer to go their own way. They are the ones who learn their life lessons the hard way. Watching the hen family on that day, I was reminded of God’s ways of training and nurturing us. I imagined as if I were one of the chicks.

When I began to read the gospel passage to prepare for reflection soon after that, I was struck by the gospel passage which portrays the image of Mother hen who would shelter her chicks under her wings. What a coincidence? Or maybe not. I believe God was speaking to me through the image again. Indeed, God is gracious and merciful in God’s ways – teaching us amidst myriad life events, the ways to live and emerge victorious. Are we willing to learn under God’s loving care?  Lent is a good time to think about these questions. I am inviting you to ponder together.

Resting in Mother hen’s wings.