God's Deliverance and God's Destruction

While reading this morning, I saw a huge shape flying out of the corner of my eye and I turned in time to see a bald eagle land in the tree outside my window.   Captivating, to watch this majestic bird survey the landscape, impervious to the cawing crows pestering him mercilessly.   I watched him for a length of time and then he flew past my window, massive wing span soaring. 

“Scripture uses the imagery of eagles some thirty times, many as an image of strength and deliverance, speed and power.  Along with three other creatures of strength, it appears as one face of the four mighty cherubim who attend the throne of God…the eagle symbolizes the speed and power of both God’s deliverance...protection... and God’s destruction…The eagles' hunting skill and sudden attack on their prey lend themselves to images of sure and sudden disaster in depictions of God's judgment...” (Dictionary of Biblical Imagery)

“You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagle’s wings and brought you to myself…”  Ex. 19:4

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint”.  Isaiah 40:31

“Clouds and darkness surround Him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne.  A fire goes before Him, and burns up His enemies round about.  His lightnings light the world; the earth sees and trembles.  The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.  The heavens declare His righteousness, and all the peoples see His glory.” 

Psalm 97:2-6

And to think of it…He is our Father, our King, our Deliverer-- now and for all eternity.