APPEARANCE CAN BE DECEIVING.

Janet and I killed two of these creatures in our home this past week. As you can see, the stinger on it's tail appears very ominous. The thing buzzed like a mosquito and caused quite a stir.

"What if this is one of those Nile virus mosquitoes," I called out as I grabbed a paper to whack it. I could just see one of us being stung by this little "devil" and drifting off into eternal slumber.

After it's demise, I photographed it and sent a copy to the Chief Entomologist at Washington State University. Mr. Eric H. LaGasa, was kind enough to respond and inform me that this flying insect is a member of the Family Ichneumonidae and is actually a beneficial wasp and is harmless to humans.

This information was certainly helpful, not to the wasp but to me ;)

As always, I saw a spiritual application to this little scenario.

We need professional help to properly identify dangerous/non-dangerous creatures. In our Christian life, the Holy Spirit is that professional help. He can help us make good decisions. Without His help, we often embrace an innocent looking person who turns out to be a biter/stinger or we shun a person who appears dangerous but is actually beneficial.

Why do we often reject His input and bring hurt into our lives? Go figure!!

I pray the Lord blesses you today.

Warmly, in His love and life,

Roland Scroggins

© 2006