Leaf-cutter Bee

You may observe a number of semi-circular holes in the leaves of my climbing rose. This is the work of a female leaf-cutting bee, whose art I was able to watch but had not the time to photograph. Using her jaws to remove the section of leaf, she carried it off between her legs and used it to seal a little cell she has made for her larvae. Bee websites are keen to stress that this inflicts no damage on the plant and therefore gardeners need not reach for their insecticides or fly swatters. By definition, it must damage the plant as its ability to photosynthesise is retarded, yet the reduction is surely minimal or even negligible. These neat, surgical operations are fascinating to watch and help establish another generation of leaf-cutting bees.

The world and its people cling on to everything: wealth, power, prestige, youth and health, yet none of these mercurial possessions can be kept. The Christian, on the other hand, is to give generously and freely, of his time, money, affection and devotion. This sometimes leaves us with holes and gaps, yet we surrender that which we cannot keep knowing we shall soon gain that which we cannot lose. Those holes above bespeak happy little bees, and the holes in your bank balance, patience, reputation and ambition bespeak a better future than anything this world can offer.

The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself. Proverbs 11:25

Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy. 1 Timothy 6:17

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