Even a Rabbit Knows

Growing Daily

Even a Rabbit Knows

The thickets bordering our yard are home to many rabbits.  They appear at sunset, hopping about in search of food.  But with all the heavy snow this winter, I started leaving fresh vegetables out for them every night.  

One frigid evening, I forgot to put any food out. When I went outside for firewood, I noticed a rabbit sitting quietly just a few feet away.  It didn’t scurry off like usual.  It simply watched me — patient, still, hopeful.  While still cautious, it seemed to understand something important: this person is good and trustworthy.

That moment made me think about how trust begins. Trust doesn’t announce itself. It often begins the way it did with that rabbit — simply by watching.

We know unbelievers watch Christians carefully, wondering if we’re genuine.  But even believers evaluate other believers, churches, and leaders, discerning who is trustworthy.  Some newcomers to our church admit to following our online services for over a year before attending in person. 

Trust rarely comes quickly.  It’s built through many small moments.  That's the spirit behind 1 Timothy 4:12: "Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity."

Words alone seldom convince anyone.  But a life of consistent kindness, integrity, and humility says: This person is good and trustworthy.

Slowly, those who have been watching begin to draw near.


- Ron Reid