Story of the Easter Lily

The beautiful flower known as a Lily has become an American symbol for Easter. Often it is referred to as the Easter Lily. I wondered how the Lily became so closely associated with Easter, a celebration amongst Christians for that first day after Christ was crucified and resurrected from the dead.

As I began to do my research early findings on how the Lily became closely associated with Easter revealed a mixture of “truths” or legends. One article gave credit to a traveling American woman who discovered them in Bermuda and brought the bulbs home with her. Another story, although similiar, gave the credit to a World War I soldier. Both of these stories agree that the Easter Lily we adorn our churches and homes with for the holiday originated from Bermuda.

With its strong fragrance, white pedals and trumpet shape some say the Lily symbolizes annoucing the resurrection of Jesus. I am not knowledgeable on all the Easter Lily legends but I do know the lily reminds me of the greatest story ever told.

On that historic morning apostles and women came to understand and to know that this man Jesus whom they had followed and served for three plus years was indeed alive and risen from the dead. A story difficult to perceive until you let Him into your heart and mind. On this Easter Sunday my hope and God’s desire is that all those listening will hear Him calling them.

Happy Easter and may the joy of Easter be yours always.