Ladybugs may seem to be an insignificant creature, but they are a great help to agricultural life. Their primary benefit is eating other insects that can damage crops, without harming the vegetation themselves. They are also pollinators, like butterflies and honeybees (farmbrite.com).
The ladybug has an interesting meaning in Catholic tradition. It became associated with the Blessed Mother, and called “Our Lady’s Beetle.” In the Middle Ages, a swarm of pests destroyed a number of farming communities’ crops. When the farmers asked for Mary’s intercession for protection and restoration of their livelihood, the tiny, red-shelled bugs came and ate the pests! Thus, they were given the name of Our Lady because they were an answer to prayer. In addition, their outer shell was considered to be a symbol of her mantle, and the seven spots her seven sorrows (ewtn.com).
The role of the ladybug certainly points to Mary and her role in the Christian life. As it is prophesied in the Book of Genesis, she crushes the head of the serpent. Ultimately, her Son is the Savior, but through her humble “yes” to God’s plan, she becomes His powerful instrument in the salvation of humankind. Her humility is the antidote to the enemy’s pride.
When it comes to the attacks of the evil one, the spiritual pests that try to destroy God’s grace in our lives, let us remember to invoke her intercession and protection. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.
