I was fascinated by a large bug walking across the sidewalk. The bug had been walking for a long time when all of a sudden, it flew away. I have no idea what type of bug it was. It was large, golden-brown in color and resembled both a caterpillar and a centipede. I was quite shocked that it could fly, as its wings were well-hidden. Honest to goodness, when it took off I said out loud, “Why walk when you can fly!”
Interestingly enough, I was watching this bug while I was sitting outside doing my examination in anticipation of receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The phrase “Why walk when you can fly” became the inspiration for my examination of conscience.
“Why walk when you can fly” recalled for me Paul’s first letter to Timothy that speaks of persisting in sin (1 Tim 5:20) and the letter to the Hebrews that admonishes us for deliberately sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth (Heb 10:26). Really, I wondered why day after day I commit the same sins. With Paul, “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do” (Rom 7:15). Why do I walk in sin when God intends me to fly like an eagle?
My bug friend helped me in my prayer and reflection. The bug was not able to fly on his own. God did that. I can not overcome my sin on my own. I need God to help me.
Sometimes victory over sin comes quickly like the bug flying on a summer’s day. Other times, victory comes more slowly like our daily struggles. The good news is that God has promised that as we make use of Grace, God will progressively bring about change in our lives. We can persevere in our efforts of prayer, good works, study of Scripture, consulting faith-filled friends and being open to God’s mercy to overcome sin because we know that God is faithful. With God’s love, we can fly!
They that hope in the LORD will renew their strength,
they will soar on eagles’ wings!
Isaiah 40:31