Monday, March 28, 2011

Dandelions for Jesus

It's that time of year again.  Dandelions are making themselves known anywhere and everywhere.  But this stubborn little weed has some interesting qualities that make them worth thinking about.

Roots
The dandelion has a strong, thick root that can reach a length of ten inches.  This root not only keeps the dandelion hardy, it aerates the soil and provides nutrients for surrounding plant life.  In addition, if you break the root, it regenerates, and the broken pieces are capable of creating new plants.
 Colossians 2:6-7 "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught.."

Flowers
You can't miss a dandelion in full bloom.  Its color is dazzling and bright, like sunshine.  It's a sharp contrast to the green of other weeds, and especially stands out in that otherwise well-manicured lawn.  It is sensitive to light, opening itself fully to the sunshine, and closing up as soon as light is withdrawn.  This humble little flower stands out!
 Philippians 2:15 "in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.."
I Peter 2:9 "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light."

Seeds
Each dandelion flower is capable of producing up to 2000 seeds.  The seed is constructed like a parachute, for maximum dispersion by any puff of breeze. Some seeds may travel for miles.  This flower was made for propagation!
 Matthew 28:19-20 "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world."

Healing Properties
The entire dandelion plant is edible - leaves, flowers, buds, and roots.  It is known for its antioxidants and vitamins.  It is especially good for the liver, kidneys, and gall bladder when eaten.  It can also be used for poultices and rubs, bringing healing to rashes and skin conditions.
 Proverbs 4:20-22 "My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh."

"Dandelions spread further, are more difficult to exterminate, and grow under more adverse circumstances that most competitors," says naturalist Steve Brill.  Hmmm... how about we substitute the word "Christian" in the place of "dandelion" in that statement?  I think that's the kind of witness our Lord would like us to be in this world today.

We can be dandelions for Jesus.  Shine through me, Lord!

2 comments:

  1. I Loved this!!! I will think about dandelions totatlly differently now. I loved the scriptures you chose for each eample as well. Thanks so much!

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  2. Thank you! I have enjoyed your blog as well, particularly the one about Jewish feasts. I have encouraged several of my co-workers to read your thoughts. We could be revolutionary Christians!

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