Spiders and their Webs

Last week, we moved from Minnesota to Texas. I literally loaded my van in a snowstorm- and two days later ended up unpacking wet stuff in 80-degree heat. It has been a hard transition as I try to make my body adjust to this beautiful place. I do love the palm trees outside of our rented condo, and I often look up into the tops of the trees, wondering what kind of fruit might appear on them.

I realized I needed to take the dog out potty for the umpteenth time (I am NOT used to doing the leash-thing. . . I am used to having a home with a fenced back yard.) We wandered the long walkway (avoiding the window that always has a cat in it), tromped down the stairs, thru the gate and out into the lawn. When all business was taken care of, we took the “long way” home, past our trash bin.

We walked under the trees toward the road. Suddenly, my face was covered with a with an invisible, wet, sticky, spider web. I did the obligatory dance and scream. The dog looked at me like I had lost my mind and backed away as far as his leash would allow.

Yeah, I think I got the spider web off my face, but, the only thing on my mind was, “wherever there is a web, there is usually a spider.”

Where was the spider, anyway? Maybe was he out taking a nap? Perhaps off visiting mom at the next tree over? I tried really, really hard to feel where he was, but he could have been anywhere. . . on my shirt, riding in my hair, hiding out inside my ear, or taking a nap down by my shoelace. . . the possibilities were endless, and I imagined all of them.

I had no peace until I got to a mirror. I had to know if there were any arachnids in my hair. I felt like I was COVERED in them. I itched and scratched and shivered. It was terrible. 

Hebrews 11:1 tells us that faith is the substance of things hoped for, and the evidence of things not seen. I never saw that spider. But, because I was absolutely convinced about the web, I was pretty sure he existed—whether I could see him or not. While it seems weird to compare faith with a spider web, think about it! Weave together all the things God has done for you, my friend. Take the time to rehearse all of the amazing stuff the Lord has given you in the past, in recent history, and yes, even just today!

When you remember all the stories, recount all the miracles, and tell a neighbor about the power, you’re much more able to set your faith in motion to believe God can meet the needs you face today.

I’ve walked through the evidence. . . and I believe He’s here. I just know it. And so should you.