Guidelines
I live in Kentucky, which is known as the Bluegrass State. Here recently it has looked more like the Purplegrass State. My entire yard has been covered with lovely violets!
Violets are quite abundant in this area and come in a variety of colors (purple, white, yellow and blue being the most common). They all look, however, pretty much the same. If you have ever examined a violet up close you know that on the lowest petal you can see a series of lines. Naturalists tell us that these lines help guide insects to the source of nectar contained in the flower. The center of the flower is the lightest in color and this, too, might further attract insects to this spot.
I find it fascinating that when the Creator designed violets that He placed upon them “guide lines” that would help insects out. To me this says volumes about God. It shows us that God is concerned about the “little details” of life and that He is there to assist all of His Creation, not just humans. (I once heard someone say God must really love insects since He made more of them than any other creature. The design of violets might be proof of that!)
Seeing the guide lines in violets also reminds me that God has given us guidelines, too, to help us out in life. The Bible is filled with instructions meant to make our lives richer and sweeter. As a pastor I’m often surprised at how biblically illiterate many Christians are. Our failure to pay attention to Scripture is about as foolish as a bee not paying attention to the violet’s guide lines directing her to the nectar within.
The Psalmist said, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (119:105) I think if we gave more attention to the Bible our lives would be enriched and we would find ourselves drawn closer to the One who made us all (violets included). If you’ve not read the Bible lately, what are you waiting for?
–Chuck
(I photographed the violet above in my yard yesterday.)