Until recently, the only way to study how a caterpillar changes into a butterfly was to cut open the chrysalis or x-ray it—both with fatal results. But a recent issue of National Geographic reported on new micro-CT scans that show how metamorphosis takes place.
Metamorphosis is a radical change in form and function. Many animals go through this process (frogs, sea urchins, wasps, beetles), but most of us know about the metamorphosis from caterpillars that become butterflies. Yet scientists are only beginning to grasp the miracle of what goes on in a chrysalis. New research shows that the insect’s makeover is a mix of the destruction of old ways of being and thinking combined with brand new ways of being and thinking.
I am not sure if John Wesley understood exactly what happens to caterpillars and sea urchins, but he sure knew the importance of becoming a new creation through the grace of Jesus Christ. And to help be us become new creations; he gave us four rules to follow every day.
His first rule, Do No Harm, echoes Paul’s words to the church in Rome, “Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law” (Rom. 13:10 NIV). As Jesus followers, we face choices that affect the lives of those who are around us. When we choose a course of action, we should ask ourselves, “Does this reflect the love that Jesus has for others, or am I only concerned for myself?”
Perhaps, the writer of Job says it best. Throughout the 31st chapter, Job reminds us that we are to live our lives in such a way that we heal instead of hurt, create wholeness instead of division, act in harmony with the ways of God and not the ways of the world.
Do No Harm. Do Good. Stay in Love with God. Give All We Can.
If we live our lives according to these simple rules; maybe we could change our lives, our family, our community, our country, and our world. After all, “Transformed People Transform People.”
Breathe Peace,
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