Fireflies

 by Macy Johnson

“If the Son sets you free,

you will be free indeed.”

(John 8:36 NIV)

 

Two generations of adults relaxed on the porch and watched their children and grandchildren chase fireflies through Pop Pop’s garden. Overhead fans kept everyone cool as the evening darkness slowly descended. One by one, tiny lights flashed over the azaleas, black-and-blue salvia, and other plants scattered around the yard.

 

Dahlia and Carver took turns as they ran up the porch steps to reveal the insects they had captured. We all oohed and ahhed as they opened their small hands and revealed God’s winged creatures. Dahlia passed her hostages onto my hands, so I could take a closer look. A few of the insects flashed their tiny flashlights at us before taking flight back into the garden.

 

My husband, Jeff, brought glass jars to the porch table for the children to save their specimens, but soon the consensus was to let them go. The fireflies were happiest as they flew through the night and flashed their signature lights in the shadows of dusk.

 

Just like fireflies, if we shine the Light of Truth, God’s Word, in the darkness, others will be drawn to us and perhaps chase us, too. We have been set free by the love of God through Jesus. Nothing can ever keep us from surrendering all to Him to be a blessing to those around us.

 

I think of the times in my life when I wanted to hold on to something or someone who did not want to be captured. My mother often reminded me that love lets go of the things it loves. If I want the best for another being, I must release it.

 

I will help to set people free, just like Jesus released me from the pull of this life. I hope you will, too!