The Gospel in Flowers

God writes the Gospel not in the Bible alone, but also on trees and flowers and clouds and stars." 

- Martin Luther

Freesia by Gene Sasse

Freesia are said to symbolize innocence and friendship. Or, when given in honor of a 7th anniversary, they represent trust and faithfulness.

To a gardener, Freesia represent maximum impact for minimum of effort. A small potful brought home from the local garden center to scent a room this month, as its beauty fades, the plants will be transferred to a sunny spot in the garden. There they will fade away- until after next year's rains, their blossoms will rise from the ground to nod "hello" again.

Named in honor of  the German physician/ botanist  Friedrich Heinrich Theodor Freese (c 1795-1876), the delicate scent which rises delicately on wiry stems from the corm with a South African heritage is said to have been a favorite of the Russian philosopher Helena Ivanovna Roerich. 

Helena Ivanovna Roerich

She was an influential 20th century practitioner in the school of Living Ethics- a belief system whereby all things have an energy force that interconnects with all others. Ms Roerich linked the scent of freesia with the divine in earthly life.

As a Christian, I can't say I disagree.

As most women in our role as home-keepers, I am tugged at in two directions.

I came programmed by the Lord, my maker, into this life equipped to celebrate with a full range of sensual delights. Certain scents sent wafting about the home courtesy of burning candles has always held a romantic mystique.

However, I also recognize that He means us to be responsible in our enjoyment. Burning fragrant candles is an expensive luxury. Not to mention the risk. A niece once fell asleep reading by candlelight. She woke up to a room in flames.

Which is why, when deciding between candles or flowers for scent- seriously consider flowers over flame.