Luna Moths

“I lie awake thinking of you, meditating on you through the night. Because you are my helper, I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely.” (Psalm 63:6-8 NLT)

I was walking with a friend on a trail when I saw something I had never seen in real life before--a luna moth. I had seen videos and pictures of these ethereal creatures with their pale green wings and long tails. In the caterpillar stage, they molt their skin as they grow. In the pupa stage, they spin a silken cocoon. They go through complete metamorphosis, developing their wings and feathery antennae. These moths have a short adult lifespan. They have no digestive system. As adults, their only purpose is to reproduce more moths before they die. Their long hindwings spin as they fly. This allows them to evade the sonar of bats which are their primary predators.

We can learn a lot from luna moths.

During our life stages, we may have to go through molting seasons as we grow. As we shed our old skin, there is a sense of fear and fragility. The resulting vulnerability is a necessary part of spiritual maturity.

Certain phases require solitude and contemplative prayer. We may have to wrap ourselves in a cocoon of silence and remain hidden for a season. In this stillness, we can get to know God more intimately. A radical transformation of character is required before we can develop wings.

Luna moths remind us that it may be beneficial to be stealthy. We don’t have to fit into other people’s expectations. It’s okay to be unpredictable, as long we continue to honor God. This allows us to be covert servants of Christ while confusing the Enemy.

Perhaps, like luna moths, we were made to do more than consume resources and flit about the world. Followers of Christ are directed to go and tell others about the good news of God’s grace. We are meant to make more disciples.

Finally, our time on earth is fleeting. May we learn to live this ephemeral life fulfilling the purpose for which God created us.

Lord, guide me through each day and night as I meditate on Your Word. You are my helper. I shall hide beneath Your wings and cling to You. In Your hands, I shall always remain secure.