What is the first woodland wildflower to emerge in the spring? Violets? Dandelions?
Correct answer is: Skunk Cabbage
Yes, the lowly skunk cabbage is one of the first wildflowers to push through the frozen soil. If you want to find one, you will need to look for a wetspot such as a stream or spring. They look like the helmet of some ancient warrior and come in maroon and green. One of their unusual characteristics is that the flowers appear before the leaves.
What amazes me about this plant is how hardy and resilient it is. Even when the ground is still frozen this plant can bloom. How does it do this? It has it’s own source of heat. “The flower can warm up to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which melts the snow around the plant” (National Wildlife Federation)
An inner source of warmth able to withstand harsh climates
I need one of those. I need an inner source of warmth capable of helping me push through tough times. What does God give us as believers that is like this inner source of warmth? HOPE
Hope is what I need. I need hope that says, “Yes, life is difficult and I feel overwhelmed, but God will see me through.” God will help me push through harsh circumstances. God will melt the frozen ground of bad habits that have kept me in bondage and I will bloom into a new creation in Christ.
Do you have hope?
Next time you see the lowly skunk cabbage, think of the amazing source of warmth that enabled it to push through the snow and then thank God for the power of hope that is available to every believer in Christ.
Who do you know today who needs some words of hope?
Good Morning Heavenly Father,
It is February and the groundhog said we were suppose to have an early spring, but he was wrong. Bummer! But the skunk cabbage is blooming by the steam and that gives me hope that spring will come again.
I wish I was in a better emotional state and not so moody. Give me patience to wait for your perfect timing.
Help us, the reader and I, to hold on to hope. Spring will come again. You are working in our lives even when things look gray and lifeless.
Thank you for amazing plants like the skunk cabbage. When I see it, I will remember to hold on to hope and press on.
This blog needs a Bible verse about hope. In the comment section, tell us which verse from God’s Word fills you with hope.
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