What Are You Weaving?

If you’ve been outside lately, you’ve probably noticed we’re apparently hosting an international spider convention right here in our corner of the world. Joro spiders have moved in, and they’re making themselves quite at home. Their webs are everywhere — across the porch, stretching between trees, and even lined up along the power lines when I drive down the road. At this rate, it looks we’re getting a head start on decorating for Halloween.

I’ll admit, I’m not a big fan of walking straight into one of those webs. And my wife, she HATES spiders. But I have to give these spiders credit: they are committed builders. Day after day, strand after strand, they create these strong and intricate designs. And when the sun hits just right, those webs shimmer and shine like threads of silver.

In a way, our lives are a little like those webs. With our words and actions, we’re constantly weaving. Some webs we spin are beautiful — kindness that connects, encouragement that strengthens, prayers that hold others up. Other webs… well, they can be a little sticky — like gossip, grudges, or impatience.

Jesus put it simply in Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” When His light shines through us, the “webs” we weave take on a beauty we may not even realize. Just like a spider’s web glistens in the sunlight, our everyday faithfulness can reflect the light of Christ into the world.

So, the next time you see a Joro spider hanging out on the porch, take a deep breath (after making sure it’s not too close to your head!) and remember, we, too, are builders. The question is — are we weaving webs that tangle people up, or webs that shine with the light of God’s love?

May God hold you,
Rev Chris Hester