24d • General discussion
The crimson worm
There is something breathtaking about the way creation whispers the gospel.
In Psalm 22 a prophetic psalm that so vividly points to Jesus’ suffering the Messiah declares, “I am a worm and not a man.” At first glance, it feels like a strange and humbling statement. But when we look closer, even creation seems to echo its meaning.
There is a small creature often called the crimson worm, historically used to produce scarlet dye. When the mother is ready to bring forth life, she attaches herself to a tree, fixing herself so firmly that she cannot leave. There, she gives her life to protect and sustain her young. In her death, a deep crimson stain is released covering both the wood and her offspring.
What a picture.
She gives her life so that her young might live. They are covered because she was poured out.
And isn’t this the heart of the gospel?
Jesus was fixed to a wooden cross. He did not come down. He willingly gave Himself, and His blood was poured out not just displayed, but covering those who would be born through Him. His sacrifice was not accidental; it was intentional, protective, and full of love.
Isaiah invites us into this mystery:
“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow… though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool.”
From crimson to white.
From sin to cleansing.
From death to life.
Even in the natural world, we catch glimpses of this divine story echoes of a Saviour who would lay down His life so that we could be covered, cleansed, and made new.
And perhaps that’s the invitation for us today
To come, to reason with Him, and to receive what only He can give.
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The crimson worm
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