“Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow.” Matthew 6:28 NLT

For us here in Scotland, this is the time to be out and about in our parks and gardens, enjoying the sunshine and our beautiful world. Those who are gardeners know that this is the time of year when you can mostly sit back, relax and enjoy all your hard work. Gardens are in full bloom, and weeds should be few and far between! It’s time to ‘look at the lilies.’ 

Now, some love lilies, whilst others hate them. I love them, although I find their scent too much indoors. I have some in my garden, and when you walk down the garden path, their fragrance is stunning, particularly on a still evening.

I have lovely memories of my Dad, who, just before he died, gave me a handful of lily bulbs. He said to me, “I bought too many, so do you want these? Just stick them in the ground and see what happens.” I did, and they flower each year in August, the same month he died. What a delightful way to remember him!

There is something in this verse for all of us. For those who love the sight and smell of the lily, then you can look at its perfect petals and fascinating colours and stand back and admire it, one of God’s fabulous creations.

For those who don’t like lilies, there is still something to be found in this verse. Jesus said, ‘Look at the lilies...and how they grow.’ So let’s look at some facts[1]:-

-They are one of the most popular flowers in the entire world.
-They can grow from two to six feet.
-There are more than 100 different species.
-They can survive for years.
-They can be used for medicinal purposes: heart problems, kidney stones, childbirth, epilepsy, fluid retention, strokes, paralysis, conjunctivitis, leprosy and mental health.
-It symbolises purity in the Christian faith.

No wonder Jesus used them as an illustration. ‘Look at the lilies’ suddenly takes on a whole new meaning! They are exotic and fragrant and have healing properties.

Jesus said about the lily, “They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are.” Matthew 6:28,29 NLT

Solomon has come and gone, and for us, he is no more than a story in the Bible. But the lily still survives and is still fragrant and beautiful thousands of years later.  

The Bible also says: “I am the rose of Sharon, And the lily of the valleys.”
‭‭Song of Solomon‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In the Song of Songs, the lily represents the bridegroom, Christ. The flower speaks to us of beautiful purity and the abundant healing properties that are in Him alone. 

Can we take time to not only consider the lilies but consider the One who pointed us to enjoy and absorb the beauties of the world around us?

[1] All Fun Facts are taken from https://easyscienceforkids.com/all-about-lilies