Nov 12 – The Rose of Sharon!

“I am the Rose of Sharon, and the Lily of the Valleys.” (Song of Solomon 2:1)

Our wonderful Lord is the Rose of Sharon, the Lily of the Valleys, and the fragrant flower in every place. He is so sweet and precious, and He has captured our hearts completely.

For instance, India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, loved roses deeply. Every morning, he would pick his favourite rose and pin it to his suit.

Sharon refers to a fertile plateau; from afar, people can see its bright red roses blooming. These roses are large, beautiful, and fragrant, and they were considered extremely valuable.

Our Lord Jesus is exceptional and precious. We praise Him saying: “He is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem!” (Song of Solomon 5:16)

Every petal of a rose is perfect and fragrant, just as every attribute of our Lord is sweet and beautiful. Yet, the red petals of the Sharon rose remind us of the blood Jesus shed on Calvary. No matter what part of history we reflect upon, His love and sacrifice rend our hearts. He poured out His life’s blood for us — and we are moved to worship Him with tears of gratitude.

Consider the lily of the valley. Its pure white colour reminds us of Christ’s holiness. Everything about Him — His Spirit, His soul, His body — is holy. His thoughts, intentions, and actions are completely pure. The white lily calls us to a holy life, inviting us to reflect His purity.

Both the lily and the rose bloom amidst thorns. Jesus lived among sinners and critics, surrounded by opposition and condemnation. Likewise, there may be times when you find yourself in the midst of trials, amidst people who oppose or trouble you. In those moments, look at the Rose of Sharon and the Lily amidst the thorns. Just as those flowers radiate fragrance, dear children of God, you too will spread the sweet fragrance of Christ in your life.

Verse for further meditation: “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)