The lotus is one of the hardest plants. The seed lies below the dense mud. Some buds immediately. Others a few years before it starts budding. The longest time it took one such lotus seed to sprout was found in China. It took over 1200 years to sprout. Lotus is known to be able to climb through 2.5 metres of mucky waters.
Not only do they survive such harsh conditions, every part of the lotus plant is used. Nothing is wasted. In Asia, the lotus flowers, seed, leaves, and parts of the underground stem are used to make medicine. The flowers are used to stop bleeding. The seeds are used for disorders of the digestive tract, including diarrhoea.
The lotus not only thrives but brings healing and life to others. It reminded me of the story of how Isaiah was sent to let God’s people know that God had not forsaken His people. At the same time assuring them that God would come to their aid and change their mourning into joy, heal their broken hearts and bring peace -literally meaing exchanging “Beauty” for their “Ashes”.
Isaiah 61:3 reads "to provide for those who grieve, to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendour."
Are you in murky waters? Are you so deep in your own troubles that you can't see the light? Are you feeling parched like the 1200 years old lotus seed? Fret not. Look to Jesus for He says "Come unto Me all who are weary and I will give you rest."
