← July 31, 2026
The Blessing of Bees
Scripture Reading — Hebrews 13:15-21
Now may the God of peace, who . . . brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus . . . work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ. . . .
It has been a blessing to be a beekeeper. My hope is that— in the process—plants, creatures, and other parts of God’s creation have benefited. In any healthy relationship, blessings flow both ways. Being a beekeeper, I know that I have received more than I have given. I have learned about and been inspired by the bees’ life in community, recognizing and honoring all members, working and serving together, communicating well, and much more. In addition, I’ve been able to enjoy and share the sweet honey made by bees, and to give thanks for the health benefits it brings.
The blessing from Hebrews 13:20-21 reflects well the flow of God’s blessings to us and through us. “Peace” refers to the biblical teaching of shalom— physical and spiritual well-being in a flourishing, nurturing environment with God and his people. Shattered by our waywardness, we desperately need to be shepherded into shalom. Our great shepherd’s rescue, nurture, protection, and guidance are all necessary for our restored thriving and well-being.
While honeybees may do reasonably well without a beekeeper, human beings do not do well without a shepherd. People wreck and ruin God’s creation and one another. Only Jesus fills the role of “great shepherd,” coming to rescue us and to “work in us what is pleasing to him.” What a beautiful blessing! Are you experiencing and sharing it?
Lord of shalom, equip us and work in us through Jesus to bring blessing into your world and bring glory to you. Amen.
About the author — Don Byker
Don Byker has been a pastor since 1984 in various churches and institutional settings. Don and his wife, Donna, are the parents of four adult children, two of whom are married. Donna and Don are also the glad grandparents of three granddaughters. Currently Don is serving in a rural church in Michigan full of gardeners.
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