The Emperor Penguin is the largest of all penguins and is a magnificent bird; these animals are interesting that two full length feature documentaries were made about them. The first of the documentaries, March of the Penguins, introduced the world to these majestic dwellers of Antarctica. Here are some intriguing facts I learned from watching the film.
First, Emperors are monogamous; a relatively unique feature in the world of animals; they have one mate for life. Perhaps even more interesting is the fact that it is the male Emperors are the ones that care for the egg until it hatches. Every year, when mating season is over, the female Emperors head off for the ocean; all of them together in one huge flock traveling hundreds of miles so that they can fish and get plenty to eat to sustain them and their new chick for a year. Meanwhile, back on the frozen tundra, the male penguins care for the eggs. Each male tucks his egg between his feet to keep it from breaking and to keep it warm in the cold, harsh, winter winds.
But here’s the thing, when all those females return from the ocean, hundreds, perhaps even thousands of them, how do you think they find their mate in the equally large crowd of males? There is no address or even a nest. The Emperor penguins always find their mate by the sound of their call, their voice. It seems impossible, but a flock of thousands of penguins sort themselves out by the sounds of their voices.
Watching this miracle unfold on the screen made me think of Jesus’ words in John 10:27-28, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish…” What a comfort it is to know the voice of the Savior and for him to know my voice.
This Sunday the Christians around the world will celebrate Palm Sunday, a remembrance of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem and the beginning of Holy Week. There is no doubt, The Palm Sunday 2020 worship experience will definitely have a different look and feel as many Christians will gather digitally and celebrate remotely.
But, the one thing that will not change is precious voice of Jesus calling his people to salvation. His voice has not changed and will never change. His voice was heard through plagues, floods, hurricanes, wars, all sorts of calamity. Even in the chaos of COVID-19 and the insanity of 2020, the voice of the “Good Shepherd” brings hope, courage, and safety to the world. As we look forward to Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday be encouraged that Jesus is victorious, the tomb is empty, and there is no fear for “God is with you…and will uphold you with his righteous right hand.”
Featured Image: Michel, Christopher. Emperor Penguins. 2013 https://www.flickr.com/photos/cmichel67/19403325870. Photograph. 1 April 2020
The Chaplain's Anvil 