Miterwort or Bishop’s Cap (Mitella diphylla)

Shapes and Symbols

For the message about the cross is foolishness to those that are perishing, but to those of us who are being saved it is the power of God.  1 Corinthians 1:18  (NRSV)

            The shapes, sizes, and colors of plants remind people of other objects, beliefs or experiences in their lives.  The Miterwort reminded us of the much larger, tall garden flower known as the Hollyhock. We saw miniature Hollyhocks and thought of the beauty of tiny things in a woodland garden, created and cared for by God and that was enjoyed by other tiny animals and insects.

            Others looked closely at the blossoms and thought they reminded them of snowflakes. Those who saw a symbol of snowflakes were reminded of the beauty that is all around us as flakes gently fall to the ground in winter.  The flower can be a symbol of God’s creative love.
            Some saw a row of tiny caps on the plant stem. Those who saw a cap perhaps saw the symbol of something that kept them warm. It could be a symbol of God’s provision of basic needs.

            Still others saw the flower as a symbol of a bishop’s cap. A bishop is one who shares God’s love with others.  The flower became a symbol for them of a leader in the church who shares God’s love. Shapes can be symbols that are used to quickly tell a story.

            The cross is a symbol for Christians that represents the “power of God”.  It reminds them that Jesus died that they might be forgiven, saved, and live forever!  To those who are perishing the symbol of the cross represents foolishness.  For Christians the cross is a wonderful symbol.

Dear Lord,
Speak to us through shapes, sizes, and colors that are used as symbols of your love.  Thank you for good symbols of your love and care all around us.  In your name we pray, Amen.

Things to Think About and Do

•  Look at shapes, sizes, and colors of spring wildflowers.  What symbols and meanings might they have for you?  What names would you give to the flowers?  What stories could you tell about the symbols?
•  Find Miterworts in a wooded area.  Observe to see how they change and grow.