Bugs, Nets and More

At one time, I viewed the dainty mosquito nets as great accents in a child's room. They gave a room a "royal" look.  Now, as mosquito nets become a necessary "life saver" ( in a sense, when you think of malaria), they quickly lose some of their intrigue.  

Take last night, for example, it was hot, humid and sticky.  The net blocked any air movement, even after the night cooled a bit. If you got too close to the edge, the net would stick to your face and if you stretched too far, your feet would escape.  Yet, the net--as uncomfortable as it was--offered protection from the tiny  mosquitos that could carry malaria.  Staying protected isn't always comfortable, it can feel restrictive, but ultimately, it is for our benefit.

The mosquito net also offers protection from other critters as well.  I remember being in India and finding out rats were trying to gnaw through my net, as the bed was next to the cupboard.  Once I pulled the bed out and tucked the net in thoroughly, they were less likely to get too close.  Just a couple of nights ago, we had some strange wasp/worm bugs that were flying around.  We were told they sting.  While Kim and Nathan hunted them down, the younger boys and I were safety under the net, safe from any stinging insects.  

During the day, the nets are wrapped up, tucked away and not needed.  We can see the bugs and avoid them, as well as be aware they dislike the sun and heat.  We will learn to avoid the area the mosquitos like to congregate (tall grass, swampy areas, etc) in order to remain safe.  When we do need to go around those areas, bug spray helps offer protection.

There's a lesson here, I just know it:). I am see how God gives us His Word as a guide.  Here we find insight into His law, plans and purposes.  When we take these directions to heart, we are allowing ourselves to come under His protective net.  God's laws and ways are designed to give us freedom, not restrictions.  When we walk with God, He sometimes will call us into danger, but He clothes us with His protection and goes before us.  

Coming to Rwanda, we knew we would be facing the unknown.  There would be critters (stinging insects, snakes, rats, etc), strange food, an unknown culture, and more, but there has been no doubt that God has been with us, directing us, taking care of us, providing for us and giving us His grace, strength and mercy each day.

We've said it before, there's nothing extraordinary about our family, we just want to be where God wants us to be.  As we've stepped out, we recognize the shelter of His protection and trust in His care.  God is good, even with the crazy bugs, interesting critters and mosquito nets!