Friday, March 25, 2016

Saint Francis de Sales

Plains Wild Indigo

Today is Good Friday. It is good because some-One died so that life might come. After taking about 20 different snapshots of blooming wildfowers on the property, I have chosen to highlight this one for this very special day. 

Like the Plains Wild Indigo, Jesus became sin - aka death - so new life would be born. Even from this creation He teaches of His love. Who would ever think that the dead, dry bush on the left would be the key to the beautiful sprays of hopeful, yellow blooms displayed by the Wild Indigo on the right. Seeds that die are seeds that reproduce - and so it is with us. 

On this Good Friday, this simple flower speaks peace to me in the mystery of how hope is most always born of suffering. It makes zero sense to the world, but as such it is.

Hebrews 5:7-10 says it well ~
In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard for his godly fear, and being made perfect he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, being designated by God a high priest according to the order of Melchiz'edek. 

This saint says it well too~
If there be a true way that leads to the Everlasting Kingdom, it is most certainly that of suffering, patiently endured. -- St. Colette

May we collectively rejoice in our sufferings, moving ahead with every step in the hope of building a sure foundation for a Heavenly future. In our death to self, may He live in us. In Christ's obedience, may we follow suit and join our sufferings to His. Thanks be to God. Amen.
Plains Wild Indigo Cool Facts~
- used by Native Americans for medicines (stimulant and astringent)
- produces a blue dye when boiled
- roots were "toothbrushes" of old
- entire bush dies in late summer, turning a silverish color, breaks and tumbles about in the wind
- we cluster and use these as hiding spots for quail during hunts