Radio programs have been around for decades. We still have the pleasure of tuning into music, talk shows, sermons, and stories even today, but there was a time when radio was the most pervasive and popular media around. Radio broadcasts have played a major role in history, especially during World War II. But one of these broadcasts ended up unintentionally offering a news update. The birdsong broadcast on BBC radio had been one of the stations longest running traditions. These broadcasts had started all the way back in 1923 and they were popular with listeners, especially now since the public was dealing with the added fear since they were mired in a devastating war. But on May 19, 1942, the radio staff were preparing to go live once again with some Nightingale chirps from a back garden next to the studio. But just as they were firing up their recording mics, they noticed a formation of Royal Air Force bombers flying overhead. The sounds of airplanes droning in the distance might not seem like an issue at first glance, but the sound engineers realized that the sounds could alert the enemy to the bombers position and ruin their surprise attack. They quickly called off the broadcast.
Unforeseen disruptions come in all shapes and sizes. Whether it’s a flat tire, a crashed computer, a lost cell phone, misplaced keys, or even more dire situations like a medical condition or a car accident, emergencies can make our hearts race, but they can also get us thinking after the situation has passed. In the following verses, Jesus wants to get the disciples thinking ahead of time: “Therefore do not fear them. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known. Whatever I tell you in the dark, speak in the light; and what you hear in the ear, preach on the housetops. And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”
He knew that his disciples would face harsh dangers, fears, and ridicule as Christians. But even in the midst of sudden threats, He wanted to plant a deep sense of peace in their hearts. This is a peace that’s not based on fluctuating circumstances, but on God’s enduring promises. Seeing life from God’s perspective would keep them steady in the midst of life’s buffeting storms. When we’re frightened by threats that seem to pop out of nowhere, let’s remember the lowly sparrows and lean heavily on the fact that God cares deeply for us.
“The remarkable moment the BBC were forced to pull the plug on World War II birdsong broadcast as bombers flew overhead.” Daily Mail Online. 28 January 2012. Accessed July 26, 2020. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2093108/The-remarkable-moment-BBC-forced-pull-plug-World-War-II-birdsong-broadcast-bombers-flew-overhead.html