Throughout the history of the church one of the the approaches to understanding the  Song of Songs has been to view the book as a allegory of Jesus and his relationship to the believer and the church.  In Chapter 2:1 Jesus is called “lily of the valleys.”  As most of you know, Easter Lilies have a special place in the celebration of Easter.  I have memories of the altar filled with beautiful Easter Lilies.  I found this interesting piece on the history of Easter Lilies in Conversation magazine.  I thought I would share it with you men.

“The Easter season coincides with the beginning of spring, a time of renewal and new life.  Often called the “white-robed apostles of hope,”  lilies are said to have been found growing in the Garden of Gethsemane after Christ’s agony, wherever His tears had fallen. Before fully opening, lilies assume a trumpet shape.  The shape represents God the Father calling his Son Jesus home, which is a great source of joy for believers in Christ.  White lilies represent purity and freedom from sin through Jesus’ death on the Cross.”

Remember Jesus referred to lilies in wanting us to see that our heavenly Father will take care of our every need. “Look the lilies and how they grow.  They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are.  And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here, today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you.  Why do you have so little faith?” (Luke 12:27-28).

So men, here are two “take-aways” from the Easter Lilies you will all enjoy this Easter Season.  First, think of that lily you are looking at as a “trumpet.”   It is the reminder that the Father called his Son back home to heaven for our sake.  Jesus promised he would not leave us orphaned, because when he went to the Father, the Holy Spirit, the very presence of Jesus would be with us and in us.  “I will not leave you as orphans: I will come to you.  Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me.”  (John 14:18).

The second “take-away” is the care our heavenly Father has for each of us.  It is personal, intimate and loving.  He knows all our needs and will take care of them.  Listen to the way the Message puts it. “If God gives such attention to the wildflowers, most of them never even seen, don’t you think he’ll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? (Luke 12:28).   Jesus reminds us in Luke 12:7, “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”