Sentinel chickens ∙∙

Sentinel chickens ∙∙

O Jerusalem, I have posted watchmen on your walls; they will pray day and night, continually. Take no rest, all you who pray to the LORD. – Isaiah 62:6

1 Thessalonians 5:1-6

 1 Now, concerning how and when all this will happen, dear brothers and sisters, we do not really need to write to you.

 2 For you know quite well that the day of the Lord’s return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night.

 3 When people are saying, “Everything is peaceful and secure,” then disaster will fall on them as suddenly as a pregnant woman’s labor pains begin. And there will be no escape.

 4 But you aren’t in the dark about these things, dear brothers and sisters, and you won’t be surprised when the day of the Lord comes like a thief.

 5 For you are all children of the light and of the day; we don’t belong to darkness and night.

 6 So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a serious infectious disease that primarily affects the brain and central nervous system. With a mortality rate of approximately 30%, it poses a significant health risk. Those who survive the infection often face enduring physical or mental challenges. In the summer of 2024, there was a cluster of cases in New Hampshire with one death, 41-year-old Steven Perry. This lethal, incurable disease is transmitted by infected mosquitoes.

What can be done?

Enter Sentinel Chickens.

Not all heroes wear capes – some don’t even wear clothes. Despite the rise of advanced technologies, one of the most effective methods for detecting widespread diseases remains surprisingly simple: Sentinel chickens. Sentinel chickens are an essential ally in disease detection. They play a vital role in monitoring and controlling mosquito-borne illnesses across the country.

Specially designated coops are set up in areas prone to mosquito infestations. Here, the chickens are fed and cared for and go about living “normal” chicken lives while waiting to be bitten by the mosquitos. Regular blood samples are taken from these chickens and tested for viruses like West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). A positive test result indicates the presence of virus-carrying mosquitoes in the vicinity. Significantly, chickens do not fall ill from the viruses they contract from the mosquitoes, ensuring their safety. They are not harmed in any way.

Without the sentinel chicken program, assessing virus activity in an area would rely on guesswork, leaving the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention flying blind without crucial data until human cases emerge. This method provides an invaluable early warning system, helping to protect communities from potential outbreaks.

BTW – Chicken Little did not make the cut – too much imagination.

The Father has countless purposes for keeping His children, the children of the King, in this world. As bearers of light who are grounded in the truths of Scripture, they serve a vital role as sentinels and watchmen. With their heightened spiritual awareness and knowledge of the Scriptures, they often perceive the signs of impending danger before others do, alert to the subtle shifts that signal trouble on the horizon.

As the return of the Lord Jesus Christ and the Day of Judgment approaches, they remain vigilant, knowing that the Lord will return unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. While those who dwell in darkness will be caught unawares, the children of the light will stand ready, not taken by surprise, but instead eagerly awaiting the Blessed Hope (Titus 2:13).

Titus 2:13 The blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus,

In their role as children of the light, there is a profound responsibility to remain alert and not be lulled into complacency by false assurances of “peace and safety.” They are called to observe, discern the times, and stay spiritually awake. Their mission is to illuminate the path for others, guiding them towards truth and preparing them for what is to come.

1 Thessalonians 5:3 While they are saying, “Peace and safety!” then destruction will come upon them suddenly like labor pains upon a woman with child, and they will not escape.

By living with this purpose, the children of the King not only protect themselves but also shine a beacon of hope and readiness in a world that often walks in shadows. Their anticipation of the Lord’s return fuels their dedication, inspiring them to fulfill their assignments with unwavering faith and courage.

REFLECT & PRAY

As the anticipated return of our Lord Jesus Christ approaches, the unfolding prophesied signs signal that the time is indeed near. This moment is not one of fear or apprehension but rather a cause for profound joy and celebration. We are called to embrace this time with hearts full of hope and anticipation, trusting in the promises of His glorious arrival.

Father, grant me the grace to remain spiritually alert and deeply aware of the unfolding of Your divine plan. My heart yearns for the return of Your beloved Son, and while I eagerly await His coming.

INSIGHT

When does a thief strike his target? No one knows in advance except, of course, the thief. So it is with the return of the Lord Jesus Christ. No one knows the day and the hour of His return. We are to remain vigilant.

As the predicted return of the Lord Jesus Christ draws closer, the signs will indicate that the time is near. Rather than fear and dread, we are to rejoice.

Father, keep me spiritually alert and aware. I long for Your Son’s return, but I ache for those I love who do not know Him.

John 9:4 We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned to us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work.

In our society today, one out of three people dies from cancer. When a terminal case of cancer is diagnosed, a short period is predicted until the end. When a patient is faced with certain death, how do they react? Some people become discouraged and dismayed. They give up. While others are determined to get things right with the Father and all those they will leave behind.

As the last days of our lives approach, we should dedicate ourselves to serving the Father as much as possible until He takes us home.

1 Chronicles 12:32 The sons of Issachar, men understood the signs of the times and knew the best course for Israel to take.

This particular group of people understood the signs of the times and knew the best course of action for people to take. So it should be with us.

Isaiah 62:6-7

 6 O Jerusalem, I have posted watchmen on your walls; they will pray day and night, continually. Take no rest, all you who pray to the LORD.

 7 Give the LORD no rest until he completes his work and makes Jerusalem the pride of the earth.

The Father’s watchmen are guardians, like sentries on the city wall. They pray and watch for the fulfillment of the Father’s promises. His sentinels will never be silent and take no rest; they will never give up. They diligently pray that His will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

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© Dr. H 2024