THE LESSON OF THE OWL

The owl is often thought of as a symbol of bad luck and stupidity. Many people consider it useless and kill it. But in truth, nothing in God’s creation is without purpose. Owls are actually very helpful for our farms and crops because they eat the insects that destroy harvests. Their diet consists mainly of harmful insects and pests. In this way, an owl is better than many people who, driven by greed and hunger for power, harm others and destroy useful things in the name of victory.

Scientists have identified 130 species of owls. They can weigh anywhere from four ounces to six pounds. Naturally, their food intake depends on their size. Small owls eat about seven ounces a day, while large owls can eat more than two pounds. They usually hunt at night, catching big insects, rats, lizards, snakes, small rabbits, and other creatures, most of which are harmful to crops or humans.

The owl’s body is designed perfectly for hunting. As one bird expert put it, it has the ability to fly silently at night. In darkness, it can locate prey simply by sound, and then swoops quickly and quietly to capture and swallow it (Hindustan Times, September 9, 1989).

Nothing in God’s world is useless. Everything has its place and wisdom behind it. Even an owl is part of this balance. By contrast, people who live in such a way that they lose all usefulness to others, who add nothing of value to the larger system of life, and instead become harmful to society—such people are, in God’s eyes, worth even less than an owl. Neither God nor people have any need for them.