A dragonfly is an insect belonging to the order Odonata, infraorder Anisoptera (from Greek ἄνισος anisos, “uneven” and πτερόν pteron, “wing”, because the hindwing is broader than the forewing). Costumed in a stunning display of brilliantly-coloured finery, adult dragonflies are no-nonsense and hunt ‘on the wing’ using their acute eyesight and strong, acrobatic flight capabilities. They are carnivorous, eating, among other dragonfly gourmet delicacies, vast numbers of mosquitoes. For this we give thanks. They also neither sting nor bite human beings; another reason to celebrate the fact that God created such an amazing insect! This ancient creature, calling the earth home for 300 million years or so, is both fascinating and mysterious. But rather than being a symbol of permanence, the dragonfly is often described as a symbol of the reality and certainty of change.
Change, renewal, restoration and transformation are all common themes, and experiences, within the faith journey. And yet we maintain that “God(Jesus Christ) is the same yesterday, today and forever. ” as in Hebrews 13:8 and in Malachi 3:6 “For I the Lord do not change…Return to me.” expressing the conviction that God’s Presence, and Truth does not change, even as the seasons, as people and as the world changes constantly. The Holy One remains faithful and loving, in all times and places. “Though the mountains may fall and the hills turn to dust, yet the love of the Lord will stand…” (Dan Schutte from Isaiah 54:10)
We all too often, however, try to keep God boxed up and manageable, even as we experience God’s guidance, call and power as that which is without limits. “I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you…I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” Isaiah 43:1f, 19. God remains faithful, yet ever creative. God remains One, yet experienced as the holy three. God remains loving, but always challenging us to move forward into new relationships, adventures, ministries and endeavours. But God doesn’t make us change. Martin Luther King said “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Are you ready, and willing, to walk farther with our Saviour?
“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”
Dr. Seuss, Oh, The Places You’ll Go!
Prayer: O Lord, lead me and guide me outside of my comfort zones that I may become all you want me to be. Amen.
No recipe for deep fried dragonfly available at time of writing!