Buzz Masterson

Posted by Susan Shipe on June 16th, 2010 in Blog | 6 Comments

Yesterday morning when I opened the window shade on the front door, I noticed an annual visitor had graced us with his or her presence once again. Up on the front porch ledge was a little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) sleeping peacefully behind the screening. There it was, and I am certain, it was a descendant of Buzz Masterson.

Buzz was an adult small brown bat that began staying on our front porch about five years ago. Every Spring Buzz would fly in and set up sleeping quarters in the same spot on the porch ledge. I believe Buzz felt safe here as he would stay with us until the summer ended and it was time when all bats would migrate south. Buzz came back for three consecutive years ñ the last year he was here, he brought a friend. I never minded ONE bat but two, well now that’s getting a little too weird for me. One morning as they flew in I said to Buzz with a broom in my hand (I did not touch nor harm the mammals), “Mr. and Mrs. Masterson, I never minded one bat on the porch but I am against you bringing your family.” I tell you the truth, when Buzz and wife flew off the next morning I never saw the two of them again - he did return the next year alone but only for a short stay!

Here’s my point in this true but silly story. Buzz Masterson found our home a safe place to settle in for a season or two. Our home provided shelter and rest for the winged mammal, so much so, that I am convinced Buzz spread the word that our front porch was a good stopping place on the journey to somewhere else!

I heard a sermon years ago encouraging parents to be a safe place for their adult children to come home to in times of need or for a time of refreshing.

A shelter in the time of storm; a hiding place in time of trouble (Psalm 32:7; 61:4; 143:9).

Our home has an open door to those who are weary or run down and need a safe and soft place to lay their heads without judgment or condemnation. Lord knows, this world is full of both. I am not condoning the taking in of irresponsible adults and providing for them ñ I am promoting that much-needed time of repose that is so often necessary but not available.

Remember the old Eagles’ song, “I got a peaceful easy feeling, and I know you won’t let me down”? THAT is what I want our home to offer. I believe it is what (my heavenly) Father expects from me and He has never steered me wrong!

Rejoicing in Hope!
Romans 5:1-5