Metamorphosis

Our zinnias have produced pleasant blooms since we planted them in late June. Watering them regularly has been part of the work that produces a good result. On Wednesday afternoon, I walked out the back door and saw this.

There were about 8-10 additional caterpillars gorging on the flower petals. I watched with fascination as they worked methodically and efficiently on the zinnias. They were like miniature buzzsaws without the noise. I decided to try getting video footage of their voracious appetites. My phone camera really didn't like the wind blowing the stalks back and forth, so I cut the stalks and placed them on the swing. What this video tries to capture is one caterpillar eating like there is no tomorrow. This sense of urgency sounds somewhat familiar.

These creatures instinctually know they must prepare for a transformation that is part of their existence. They eat everything thay can in preparation for the pupa stage to begin. A time of dormancy follows and then the beautiful unfolding occurs. Somewhere in the future a gorgeous butterfly will appear and begin the cyclical nature of its species. This process of regeneration sounds much like the cyclical nature of disciple making in the church. A sense of urgency motivates believers in Jesus to love people and introduce them to the "Bread of Life" (aka) Jesus.

"Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the

word of Christ. (Romans, 10:17, NIV)

Like caterpillars, we need to be feeding on the power of God's revealing story in the Bible. It transforms us.

Have you accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior? If so, you have done something like these caterpillars. You have fed on God's word through teaching, preaching, and care of loving believers.

Perhaps, there was a time of pupating as the Word transformed your impending death into eternal life. You have emerged a new creation, ready to worship and glorify God.

Look around you, are there people who are walking toward a death and are unaware of their path? Maybe you can be the one person to lead them toward the same transformation you are now enjoying.

“No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the

Father... ....So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do

not expect him. (Matthew 24:36, 44, NIV)