Catching Butterflies
Years ago, my sister and I decided to catch butterflies. It sounded exciting, but once that wiggling body was held captive by my chubby fingers, I just felt guilty. What right did I have to hold it down? It kept fighting for its freedom, so I soon learned, the best part of catching butterflies…was setting them free.
I can remember feeling awful for wounding a butterfly’s wing. It is easy to do—just hold on a little too tight and the damage is done. How relieved I felt when I let go of the butterfly and allowed it to take flight.
Does that sound familiar? Have you ever held on too tightly to something or maybe someone, a circumstance, or past experiences?
It is time for us to fly and let others do the same. The more we hang on and tighten our grip, the more tangled life becomes. I have tried to just let go, but I’ve experienced something much better—placing myself and others into God’s hands.
Galatians 5:1 says, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” It's by grace through faith in Jesus Christ that each of us can be set free. Our freedom doesn’t come from our own efforts but from the sacrificial love of our savior.
Just that simple? In a word, yes. We try to hang on to people and circumstances out of love and concern, but there might be some fear there, too. We need to face that. Sometimes our fear can paralyze us with our fists clenched. When we hang on so tightly, we hinder ourselves and others from learning to fly…right into God’s arms.
Are there things holding you down? These could be fears, regrets, or attachments that impede your progress. Often, we cling due to love or fear, even when it restricts us. Similar to a butterfly's delicate wings, our tight grip can hinder growth.
What areas could you be holding too tightly? Is it a job, a relationship, or past errors? Are you unintentionally stunting someone's growth? Remember, releasing your grip is empowering. Just as freeing a butterfly grants it real freedom, letting go creates space for transformation. Trust that this act isn't weak, but brave—a leap of faith. Experience the true freedom that comes when we place our trust in our Heavenly Father.
By Pastor Jan Wilson