Praying Mantis

“We devote ourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” —Colossians 4:2

There was a young praying mantis in the backyard at dusk yesterday.

I was fortunate enough to get some macro photos after a friend called out and summoned me to grab my camera. I surely didn’t expect the moment, and I might have missed it entirely had I not been invited. I was thankful, not only for the tiny critter itself, but for the quiet act of collaboration that made seeing possible. Thanks to Ki for sharing the moment with all of us.

Sometimes watchfulness does not arrive as stillness and waiting. Sometimes it arrives as responding.

The praying mantis made me wonder if paying attention is not only about slowing down enough to notice life, but also about being willing to answer when life gently calls our name. There are moments we seek, and there are moments that find us. Gratitude begins when we recognize both.

“Having the eyes of our hearts enlightened, that we may know what hope is.” —Ephesians 1:18 ESV

Find out what else I’m reading at my Goodreads profile.

Photo details: A young preying mantis found in the backyard at dusk.

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