For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible.

Colossians 1:16

 

Have you ever observed tulips when they’re pretty well finished blooming? Have you seen how awesome the flowers become? Don’t throw them away when they start wilting and dying. Don’t assume they have no more to offer.

These pictures are samples of some I’ve captured as I’ve watched bouquets go from bud stage, to maturity, and …on to the best of all.

The best, for me at least, is during the flowers’ last stage of life. It’s then when they show their greatest magic. Keep watch as they develop, and you will see them take on shapes resembling modern sculpture.

Petals dry. Some don’t.

Still adhered to the stems, a few become like lanterns. Sometimes a mysterious source creates a glow within – a glow resembling candlelight reflections. Others open wide – virtual butterflies ready to fly. Eventually petals let go of the stems and drop, leaving pistil and stamens exposed. That’s all that remains.

Variations are never predictable, only seen when the hands of God reveal them. As flowers wilt and dry, my interest is held captive. I check several times a day to see changes as they occur – unable to pull myself away till only the stems and leaves are left.

But what a show! How awesome to see such great diversity of God’s work displayed in one simple bouquet of tulips. The magic! …and I’ve only shown one small part of its life. The part most people discard.

Thank you, God, for giving us the eyes to see.

Marja

 

NOTE: I will be publishing a picture book with tulips like the ones described here. Let me know if you’d like me to hold one for you. I’ll let you know the price when it becomes available.