“You must also treat some birds as things that are wrong to eat. Stay away from them. It is a sickening thought for you to eat any of these birds: eagles, vultures, buzzards, kites, all kinds of falcons, all kinds of black birds, ostriches, nighthawks, sea gulls, all kinds of hawks, owls, cormorants, great owls, water hens, pelicans, carrion vultures, storks, all kinds of herons, hoopoes, and bats. Leviticus 11:13-19 ERV:

These verses list birds set apart as unclean, calling the community to notice and live by God’s distinctions. The specifics may feel foreign, but the deeper point is timeless: God shapes his people through concrete practices that teach discernment and obedience. When you encounter rules that seem odd, ask how they form your heart, do they cultivate attention to God, humility, and a life that looks different from the world around you. Let this passage remind you that holiness is learned in small, steady choices that shape identity over time.

Dear Blessed Lord Jesus, give me wisdom to see the purpose behind Your commands and the humility to follow them. Shape my daily choices so they reflect Your holiness and point others to You. Love You, thank You, praise You and give You all the honor and glory in Your Precious Name Amen.