A Buffalo in the Storm

Today, while hiking through Buffalo State Park, I spotted a lone buffalo in the distance. Snow was falling steadily, blanketing his massive frame in white. As he slowly rose to his feet, I noticed a tiny bird nestled beside him. Instead of flying away, the bird tucked itself beneath the buffalo, finding shelter from the cold. There, in the warmth beneath the great beast, it pecked at the uncovered grass, untouched by the snow. The buffalo stood still, unbothered and at peace, providing a safe haven for his small companion—a quiet act of protection and provision in the midst of the storm. The buffalo didn’t need to do anything extra—it simply was a place of refuge.

Witnessing this got me thinking: How can we, like the buffalo, be a shelter for others in life’s storms? How can we use what God has given us to serve, protect, and care for those in need?

1. The Call to Generosity — Sharing What We Have

“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” — Hebrews 13:16

• Just as the buffalo provided warmth and food without effort or expectation, God calls us to share what we have.

• Generosity isn’t always about giving money—sometimes, it’s giving time, encouragement, kindness, or simply being present for someone in need.

• Even when you have little to offer in life, don’t focus on what you have or don’t have to give—focus on offering what’s inside your heart. Give the Holy Spirit, who dwells within you.

Who in our lives might need shelter—physically, emotionally, or spiritually?

2. The Power of Sacrifice — Laying Down Comfort for Others

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” — John 15:13

• The buffalo sacrificed comfort by standing in the cold so the bird could find shelter and food.

• Jesus is the ultimate example of sacrifice—He left the glory of heaven to serve, suffer, and ultimately give His life for our sins, so we may choose to have a relationship with him.

• Serving others often requires stepping outside our comfort zones. Are we willing to sacrifice our time, preferences, or resources to help others?

3. Serving Like Christ — Being a Refuge for Others

“It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant.” — Matthew 20:26

• The buffalo didn’t chase the bird away; instead, it became a place of safety.

• We are called to be a place of refuge for the broken, the hurting, and the lost.

• Just as the bird found sustenance under the buffalo, people around us may find hope, love, and encouragement when we serve them.

So, Be the Buffalo!

This week, who in your life needs shelter, warmth, or care? Who is facing a storm and just needs someone to stand beside them?

I challenge you to open your heart and look for opportunities to serve—whether through a kind word, a generous act, or a sacrifice of your time. Just as the buffalo provided safety without hesitation, may we also be a refuge for those in need, reflecting the love and compassion of Christ in all we do.