Looks Can Be Deceiving

Photo image courtesy Pixabay

When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.”
– Luke 7:13

Oh no, they are drowning!

I had arrived at the pool for my early morning workout when I noticed the poor thing fighting for all it had in itself not to drown. Its wings, no doubt, were saturated with water, making the struggle even more difficult for the tiny creature. Quickly, grabbing a net, I gently scooped up the exhausted honey bee and set it on the pool deck. Is it ok? I thought to myself.

The tiny pollinator slowly moved a front leg as if to wipe its face. Knowing the Creator’s sunshine would eventually dry its wings, I began my pool workout. Every few minutes, I would check on the little insect. Would it survive? Only time would tell.

Over the next hour, I observed God’s little creature slowly be restored to life. I found it fascinating that the bee looked perfectly healthy, yet it failed to do what bees do — fly off and buzz about.

Isn’t that a lot like us? When we are struggling, be it physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually, many of us have become very good at disguising our suffering. We camouflage the symptoms of hardship in hopes no one will notice. We let pride or fear bind us to near drowning. What we really need instead is help to be set free. Sadly, in our world today, many people lead unhealthy lifestyles. I am not referring to only physical. The mental, emotional, and spiritual health of people today is at an all-time low, especially among young people. The world is hungry for help.

The only true, life-changing bondage breaker is Jesus. As Christ-followers, we are to be salt and light to others. Jesus radiated compassion to the hurting. We should do the same. By simply paying attention to those around us, God can and will use us to bring hope to the hurting. Most of the time, people in need of support require our compassion and a listening ear. They need encouragement and to know they are not alone.

An hour later, as I finished my water workout, I looked over to the spot where the small rescued critter once rested. My heart smiled as the honey bee was no longer there. Thank You, Lord, for your compassion and resurrection of life!

Questions for Reflection:

1. Who do you know who is camouflaging an unhealthy lifestyle?

2. What can you do to help them?

3. How can you be more aware of those in need?