Lord, you are the hope of Israel; all who forsake you will be put to shame. (Jer. 17:13)
Expanded Passage: Jeremiah 17:12-13
Honeybees—pollinators for flowers, fruits, and vegetables—have been known to humanity for over 6,000 years. Today they are an endangered species, due in part to the use of pesticides, loss of habitat, and industrialized agricultural practices. A hive is the bee’s sanctuary; it is where they live, work, raise their young, form community, and produce the much-desired substance we know as honey. Bees clean their hives the instant mold or rot develops, before it takes over and ruins their home. There are lessons here for us.
As the hive is the sanctuary and source of life for a bee, the Lord was, and is still, the hope of Israel, as well as any who trust in him. His throne is for those who cling to him, who do not forsake him for the wealth, lures, and dangers of this world. Those whose confidence is in him and are fruitful for him are blessed; their riches are not the wealth of this world, but heavenly riches.
Bees do not sleep; they remain motionless but stay alert. Always alert, we need to keep our focus and attention on the goal, as God works for our good. Keeping our lives clean, free from putrefying and destroying distractions, will prevent devastation. God is our hope and renewal, and a life with him is rich in boundless blessings.
Trust in the God who created the bee . . . and thee.
Susan Gordon lives in Wadsworth, Ohio, where she enjoys riding her e-bike, walking, serving as a volunteer in her city and county parks, photography, and spending retirement making memories with her family.
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
