Most of us probably have one or more Poinsettias brightening a corner of our house for the holidays, but have you ever really looked at them up close?
This one is just a little $3.99 plant from Home Depot, but just look at how glorious it is ...
I did a little research on Poinsettias and discovered that they are native to Mexico. They were named after America's first Ambassador to Mexico, Joel Poinsett, who brought the plants to America in 1828.
The Mexicans in the eighteenth century thought the plants were symbolic of the Star of Bethlehem. Thus, the Poinsettia became associated with the Christmas season. The actual flower of the poinsettia is small and yellow, but surrounding the flower are large, bright red leaves, often mistaken for petals.
Even the finest handmade ruffles can't hold a candle to this one made by God ...
This is probably a busy weekend for most of us, getting ready for Christmas — but in the midst of all the decorating, cooking, baking, and shopping, I hope we can take the time to "stop and smell the roses," and take a closer look at a Poinsettia or two along the way.
