The Blue Bells of England and Hope
England in the spring is a sight to behold. The weather in general in this part of the world is known for being rainy, often cool and generally not very inviting. That is all true, but it does have an upside. Because of the overabundance of moisture, the flora thrives. Winters are cold and often very wet, but the plant world comes alive in spring!
One of the most stunning markers of the spring re-awakening is the emergence of Blue Bells — a gorgeous blue flower, which loves shady forest floors, some sun and, you guessed it, lots of water. Their grassy leaves and stems begin to fill in the previously dull brown patches between the trees around late March, early April. Once the brilliant blue flowers appear, they bring the woods alive — especially if one can catch them in a sunny spell.
But alas, it seems that all good things must end. Toward the end of May, they begin to hang their heads and the colour leaves their cheeks. The once strong leaves lay down in submission to the inevitable, pre-programmed physical demise. The blooms turn brown… and the plant loses its glory. A short walk through our nearby woods would have indicated to any Blue Bell aficionado that summer is nigh.
But the withered Blue Bell plants can also remind us of something else. Something very positive and encouraging.
It has always been clear to me that God loves colours. He has created so many various shades of all the primary ones (which He also created). And I secretly think that He must have a special love for Blue Bells, as their prismatic brilliance brings such joy in the early spring. When we see them, we are uplifted. But seeing them shrivelled on the ground can have the opposite effect. On my walk this morning, that was the spectacle that greeted me — a Blue Bell grave yard. After staring at them for a while I thought, “but they will be back in all their glory next spring!”
In life we will experience highs and lows. God allows both — so that we may learn. We learn in the good times and we can also learn in the bad times. 1 Corinthians 10:13 assures us, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
This is a very encouraging scripture to keep in mind, especially in view of the fact that we are all human and prone to being tempted — often finding ourselves giving in. If we turn from our sin and repent of it — that means, learn from what we did wrong, entreat God to intervene and help us, and genuinely work at going the right way — then God will act. He will help us. All is not lost. Our Father wants us to do well… and will help us along the way so that we might. If we find ourselves depressed and down because of our sins, we need to turn to the source of all good things. Act on the instruction that He gives in His word. Repent, learn to do better next time. He will bring us back and we can bloom again.
I can hardly wait to see the Blue Bells again next year.
Mr. Orchard’s Trip to the Philippines
Just a quick reminder that Mr. Orchard is traveling in the Philippines over the next couple of weeks. Your prayers for the success of the journey would be much appreciated.
Warm regards,
Cliff Veal
