Chicken Run: The Great Escape

 


Well, we seem to have our own version of Chicken Run happening here at Our Faithful Flock.

Yesterday, two of our hens escaped the backyard and went on an adventure of their own. We got a call from a neighbor letting us know they had made themselves comfortable in her backyard. Mike had to head over and chase them down before they decided to explore the rest of the neighborhood.

Apparently, that experience wasn’t enough excitement for Ruby, our head hen and undisputed leader of the flock. This afternoon she attempted another escape, trying to fly over the fence. Then this evening, Ruby recruited Ethel for a second mission. Together they found another way out at the opposite end of the yard.

Once they were free, they raced past the pool and took off running. Mike gave chase, but the girls seemed convinced they were training for the Chicken Olympics. They sprinted through the backyard, around the house, and into the front yard, certain they had finally won their freedom.

Unfortunately for them, Mike eventually caught up and managed to corral them toward the gate. But just when victory seemed close, the hens planted their feet and refused to move another inch.

With no other options left, Mike grabbed the water hose and gave them a gentle spray. Suddenly, those stubborn chickens discovered they could move after all! They turned around and hightailed it back to their side of the fence faster than they had escaped.

The adventure ended with all hens safely back where they belonged, although Ruby is probably already planning her next breakout attempt. Being at the top of the pecking order apparently isn’t enough—she wants to be the ruler of the entire neighborhood.

Lesson Learned: Chickens may not always know where they’re going, but they’re usually determined to get there. And sometimes a little water provides the motivation they need to head back home.

“Like sheep they are prone to wander…” (Psalm 119:176) Thankfully, God patiently guides wandering hearts—and occasionally wandering chickens—back where they belong.

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