As We Bloom

Just about every flower is beautiful when it has reached full maturity. But some flowers can be striking, even when still in their smallest bud stage. 

For example  the rose, with it’s tightly furled central spikes and protective outer sepals, offer a sense of quiet anticipation. 

And peonies, in their “marshmallow” bud stage, are incredibly striking. The thick, rounded buds resemble heavy brushstrokes of vibrant color just waiting to burst open. 

However,  the bud of a Queen Anne’s Lace is rarely described as beautiful.  Before blooming this common flower resembles a knotted ball of tangled fern.

 But when the stems open, their delicate lace is exquisite. 

If you look closely God spends more time on these elegant patterns of tiny flowers than my grandmother did on an intricate doily.

As human beings we develop similar to the vastly different flower types. Some are noticeably more attractive even as infants.  And others blossom much later.  

But true beauty is found on the inside.  

As we develop and grow, God has designed each of us as unique as each of His flowers. 

We are all amazing creatures of His kingdom. 

This is shared with us in Psalm 139:13-14:

:For you formed my inward parts;
you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”

Our beauty was settled at our creation, not by the standards by anyone but God, our maker and redeemer.  He alone recognizes our value.