A Jericho Rose

I don’t think I have been shy in sharing that it has been a difficult season at the same time that it has been a season of abundance. It doesn’t seem logical that I can be in both these seasons at the same time, but I am. This past weekend, I was cleaning my desk and picked up an old “Strength and Grace” devotional that mentioned a Jericho rose. This plant, although it may seem dead, comes back to life when it is placed in a little bit of water. In order for it to continue to live and survive, the water source has to be removed at least one day a week. In its dormant state, it can survive for years without water only to come back to life when the water source is provided. Its nickname is the resurrection plant. When I read this, I immediately went on Amazon and ordered it so it would arrive in time for Rob’s birthday celebration. Part of me wondered if it was real-if it would work. When I added water and watched it slowly come back to life, all I could think of is what an amazing symbol of rebirth, of resurrection. What once was dead or lost coming back to life with living water-spiritual rebirth that is found in our Father and the living water He provides. I have looked at this photo countless times today. I needed the reminder that if this plant can come back and be reborn, healing is possible in all of us. We may go through difficult seasons, or dry seasons, but it does not mean that a season of abundance is not coming. It does not mean that we cannot be reborn and thrive again. “At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:3-5, NIV)