Amazing Skin

Mary’s Monday Musings to Quilt Encouragement
Amazing Skin

I never saw a reptile with such interesting scales and skin. The Bearded Dragon was quite comfortable with the group gathered around to see his unusual coat of intricate designs from pleats to scalloped patterns and a chin filled with rows of spikey looking points that probably gave rise to the word ‘bearded’ in his name. His owner told us that if he was frightened the pouch under his mouth would swell up. If he were very upset, it sometimes turns black. He was content to watch us from the security of her shoulder or her hand. His bright coloring contributed to his unusual appearance. He behaved well since he trusted the woman who held him and fed him. His pouch wasn’t swollen or dark in color, reflecting a content reptile, but I wasn’t ready to trust him.

I love opportunities to see God’s amazing creatures that I wouldn’t normally encounter in my environment. I’m rather glad not to encounter them in their normal, wild environment. In my ignorance of their nature or behavior patterns, I might get myself into trouble or do them harm instead of good. But I was glad to see this creature with his unique charm. How often do we judge other things, people, or experiences according to appearance, characteristics, or influences without enough information to make a proper judgement? God, help us always remember to consult You whenever we are in an unfamiliar situation or around unfamiliar people. Remind us to ask You to guide us and prevent us from coming to premature conclusions. At the same time give us wisdom for each situation. Help us see the beauty in others and recognize the good as well as discern what danger might lurk in all situations. Help us find the important line between self-protection and open mindedness. Make us kind in our thinking and wise in our actions.