Rose of Death

A black rose obviously isn't something you want to give as a gift to someone you love. Black is the color which has always been associated with death and the dark side of human nature. Whether we like it or not, we all have a blackness inside of us. What do we call this "dark side"? Sin. Let's look closer at the word. Sin leads to consequences: death. It can be death of a relationship, death of an opportunity, death of trust, physical death, etc. Deciding to try drugs for the first time as a result of falling into peer pressure can lead to physical death. Deciding to lie to someone you love can lead to trust issues forming between you and that person when they find out the truth you have been trying to conceal. Deciding to post a status on facebook cussing out a friend of yours for something they did could cost you an opportunity for work when the employer checks your facebook and decides you are not a respectable enough person for the job. If you take a careful look at your life, most, if not all, of your sin has led to negative consequences and repercussions. The good news is, death can be followed by rebirth, and that is why black roses inspire many to start afresh. When we look at our sinful selves, the blackness we have in our lives, we should open our eyes to the fact that we need to change and that true,lasting change can only come through Jesus Christ. He offers a fresh start; 1 John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." Any day, any time, Christ offers us a new beginning. Open your eyes to the blackness of your rose and let God transform it into the beautiful creation he meant it to be!