SS Thoughts #39: Beauty out of Mud?

It is interesting that many persons indulge in mud masks and mud baths for beauty enhancement, and to feel rejuvenated. Made me think about the lotus flower—which grows in the muddy swamp. It is said that the deeper the mud, the more beautiful the lotus blooms!

The lotus flower was very important in the religion of ancient Egyptians. It was thought to symbolize the sun—because at nightfall it closes and goes beneath the water, and at dawn it climbs up above the water and reopens. Though some other water plants bloom above the water, it is only the lotus, with its strong stem, that regularly rises 8-12 inches above the water. This flower is also one of the most well known symbols of Buddhism—where it is believed that the pattern of growth signifies the progress of the soul from the mud of materialism, through the waters of experience, and into the bright sunshine of enlightenment.

Hmmm…….. Not quite our theology, but perhaps we can learn a lesson from the lotus…….

We may indeed be mired in the swamp of sin, but we need not remain buried in it. Our trials, and our daily overcoming of them, should make us stronger—so we can rise up and allow some good to emanate from us. Thus we create beauty and happiness wherever we’re planted. And by God’s grace we may draw others towards the One we serve. Draw ME nearer dear Lord, I pray.

[Listen to the words of the Hymn "Draw me nearer", written by Fanny J. Crosby, at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLjuW2Y9G9g