The Daily: Tuesday May 12, 2026

'Jerusalem, Jerusalem...how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing.' - Matthew 23:37

The Heart That Gathers

A lot of our culture defines strength as being powerful and dominant. However, Jesus gives us an alternate example of how to show divine love. He uses the example of a mother hen, who wants to have all of her chicks underneath her wing for protection and safety. There is no weakness in this type of love. A mother hen would fight off any predator (even if she had to put herself at risk) and lay down her body to protect what she values most. The same is true of God's view of us. God does not want to be viewed as a remote or demanding deity, but rather one that is close, intimate, and protective. When we are feeling overwhelmed, when we feel like we are lost, and/or fearful, we know that there is a God that has chosen to nurture us instead of ruling over us from a throne. This form of nurturing is not just related to a biological female; it is an expression of selfless caring that can be demonstrated by any person.

Reflection Question
When have you experienced or witnessed someone offering protective, nurturing love in a difficult situation?

Prayer 
God, thank you for your tender, gathering love that seeks to protect and nurture us. Help us recognize your mothering heart in our lives today.