"Consider the lilies, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin; yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these." (Luke 12:27 - Holy Bible RSV)
In spite of all the wealth and material things King Solomon acquired during his lifetime, nothing he possessed could compare to the simplicity and beauty of the lilies that grew and blossomed in the fields. There is a powerful lesson to be learned in this one verse of scripture.
As much as I have tried, I am still unable to fathom how a tiny seed, a bulb, or a corm can be placed in the soil for a time, then grow, then suddenly bring forth such a glorious array of blossoms. Often I find myself boasting about the beautiful flowers "I" have grown when they are in full bloom in my garden. And yet, I can't help but remember that I had very little to do with either their growth or their blooming. I only planted the seeds and then fertilized and watered the soil; it was really God who did all the rest!
Yes, there truly is something awe-inspiring about springtime. Although it's true that each season brings its own special beauty -- especially where we live -- spring always seems to be greeted with the most fervor. Perennial flowers of many varieties, flowering bulbs, and shrubs and trees that have been resting during the cold months of winter are slowly coming back to life as evidenced by their tender new leaves and swollen buds. Bright green spikes of hyacinths, tulips, daffodils, narcissus and crocuses are already sporting a dazzling rainbow of blossoms. I especially love the springtime season here in beautiful Washington State. In addition to the welcome sight of the spring flowers, spring brings with it another sign of new life -- a brand new generation of gossamer-winged butterflies!
These mystical returning migrants from the south will soon be seeking suitable places to settle and mate and rear their young here in our area. Female butterflies will be primarily concerned about locating their species' specific host plants on which to lay their fertilized eggs -- not and easy chore at times. However, they instinctively know they must find those plants to ensure that their caterpillars will have appropriate food for survival after hatching. Both male and female butterflies will be seeking flowers from which to imbibe nectar for their own survival. They will also be looking for shelter from inclement weather, a sunny place for basking, and a source of water -- some for sipping and perhaps some for "puddling."
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