Easter Devotional 2023 - Day 3: Easter is About the Lilies

OK, I am not a flower kind of guy, but this is compelling. Easter lilies are a tradition around the world. It is common practice to send Easter lilies to relatives and loved ones around Easter. In many churches, including North Park, you will see Easter lilies decorating the front of the church on Easter Sunday. Why? Where did the tradition come from? How did it begin? Like most traditions, the Easter lily tradition began with stories and maybe a little folklore. In fact, in early Easter lore, lilies are said to have sprouted from the ground where Christ's blood and tears fell during crucifixion. Where that story began and if there is any validity to it, we do not know. What we do know is that lilies are mentioned somewhat frequently in God's word. What follows is a couple of examples:
“I will be like the dew to Israel; he will blossom like a lily.” (Hosea 14:5).
When God spoke of giving new life to Israel, He compared it to the blossoming lily.
Look at this example then from the New Testament:
“Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these” (Luke 12:27).
Again, when the Lord Jesus wanted to express a type of life that only God is able to produce, He used the lily as His example. Solomon had an impressive man-made grandeur, but lilies - says Jesus, are created by God and far "out dress" even Solomon in all his splendor. With attention grabbing consistency, the lily in scripture, represents the life that may only be given by God.
 
How incredibly fitting then that lilies have become the favored Easter flower. Paul wrote, "what you sow does not come to life unless it dies." 1Co 15:36 And so, "Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures…" 1Co 15:3–4. Like the lily bulb, He was buried and like the lily, He rose on Easter morning giving us the new life that only God can produce. "…unless you believe that I am he you will die in your sins.” Jn 8:24 Unless you believe I am who? The one and only Son sent from the Father who died for your sins - that's who. This is the precious promise of Easter, "Because I live, you also will live." Jn 14:19
 
Repent of your sin and heart-rebellion and put your trust in Christ alone who died and was raised that you might live. Praise God for new life found only in Christ.