Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming

Could the birth of Jesus be compared to a rose? This was thought of by a person unknown to history, writing in Germany sometime in the fifteenth century.

We know this inspired idea from the Christmas carol, “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming.” As this anonymous author realized, the picture of Jesus as a rose helps us see His beauty and the hope He brings.

Jesus was born at a time when many of God’s people felt hopeless. Under the hand of the Roman Empire, many were discouraged. Yet the author of this song realized that Jesus changed everything. He wrote, “Lo, how a Rose e’er blooming from tender stem hath sprung!” Jesus came to earth during a time that seemed like the “cold of winter,” but He brought hope and life.

The writer realized how God had fulfilled His promises. Jesus came from “Jesse’s lineage…as men of old have sung.” His birth demonstrated God’s faithfulness, because it had been foretold by Isaiah. This showed God’s love, how Mary “bore to men a Savior.” And its message excited shepherds who “sped and in the manger found Him.”

We don’t have to be disheartened, because Jesus “dispels with glorious splendor the darkness everywhere.” He is both divine and human: “True Man, yet very God, from sin and death He saves us, and lightens every load.” And we can look forward to spending eternity with Him!

Today, don’t give in to discouragement or fear. Rejoice at the hope that Jesus brings. No matter what’s going on in the world, or what problems you face, you can have joy and experience victory.

Celebrate! And tell others the Good News!