Photo by Serafima Lazarenko on Unsplash

During this Easter season, a blooming lily reminds us of the profound symbolism woven into nature by our Creator. Just as the Easter Lily emerges from the earth, Jesus emerges from the tomb, triumphant over death. In this post-resurrection world, the Easter Lily serves as a poignant metaphor for faith – it begins as a bulb buried in darkness, yet through patient waiting and nurturing, it bursts forth in radiant beauty, much like our faith blossoms when nurtured by prayer, scripture, and community.

In Paul’s first letter to the early church in Corinth, particularly in the 15th chapter, he extols the qualities of the church, emphasizing resurrection hope and the ‘victory’ found in Christ. The Easter Lily embodies these qualities as it rises from the ground, symbolizing the church’s resilience and steadfastness in the face of adversity. Just as the Easter Lily’s white petals reflect the purity and holiness of Christ, so too should the church reflect his love and grace to the world.

Like the bells on the horns that blare out, announcing the good news, this horn-shaped flower delivers a reminder that God’s promise has been fulfilled.  Death has itself been defeated.  There is nothing that can keep us separated from God’s unstoppable love.

Moreover, like the Easter Lily’s fragrant aroma fills the air, drawing people near, the church is called to be a beacon of hope and healing in a broken world, spreading the sweet fragrance of Christ’s love wherever it goes. As we encounter the Easter Lily this season, be reminded of the power of resurrection and the call to embody the qualities of faith, hope, and love that Paul speaks of, so that we may truly be the fragrance of Christ to the world around us.

May God’s peace find you today. – Pastor Peter

Let’s pray… God of the garden, as Easter Lilies bloom, may our faith blossom like petals, embodying the resilience and fragrance of Christ’s love. Amen.