Here are what we commonly call Chinese lilies. Two weeks ago, they were but 2 or 3 inches high. Now, they are between 2 and 3 feet. How rapidly they've grown! How can we explain it? I can give one reason for this. It's because they had enough preparation. The bulbs from which these lilies grew were kept in the dark for 10 days. There, in the dark, they saved up strength and energy for the work that was before them.
Many years of Jesus' life were hidden from the public eye. They were years when, as far as the world is concerned, he was in the dark, preparing for the great work of his public ministry. My dear young people, do not whine over the days and years you have to go to school. They are not simply days of waiting, they are days of preparation.
Again, these lilies come from dark and humble surroundings.
Now, here is a very plain dish. In the dish are a few ordinary rocks taken from our yard. Water is poured upon the rocks. Among these rocks the lily bulbs take root. Girls and boys, it does not matter much what kind of home you have, as long as it is a good home.
John Wesley's youth was hid away in a poor Methodist chapel. Abraham Lincoln was born and grew up in the dark and humble surroundings of a log cabin. Our Savior himself was born in a manger, and his childhood home was far from being a palace. Make the best of what you have and all will be well. God will take care of you and bring you out of the darkness.
How fragrant these lilies are! Faith, hope, love, patience, strength and truth - these fragrant qualities of life often grow best in the dark. My prayer is that our good Father make your life as fragrant as these flowers.
REFLECTION: Ask the kids
1. What would you like to be when you grow up?
2. What do you need to do to become what you want to be?
MEMORY VERSE: Luke 2:52
"And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor whith God and men."
KIDS CRAFT: How to Make Origami Paper Lily or Free Coloring Pages
Origami Lilly - Click here for funny video clips
Alternatively, just print a free flower coloring pages from letmecolor.com
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