LILY - "When You Need a Fresh Start"
Your Divination
You feel stained by your past mistakes. Like you’ve messed up too many times to ever be truly clean again… and you’re wondering if God could really want someone like you.
Saintly Wisdom
The lily is Mary’s symbol of purity, but not the kind that means “never messed up.” It’s the purity that comes from being washed clean, again and again. Mary shows us that God’s grace doesn’t just cover our mistakes… it transforms them into wisdom. She intercedes for the broken, not the perfect.
The Lily's Story with Mary
The white lily became associated with Mary during the Annunciation, when the Angel Gabriel appeared to her. In medieval art, Gabriel is often shown carrying white lilies, representing Mary’s purity of heart and her willingness to say yes to God’s plan. But here’s what’s beautiful… the lily doesn’t stay pure by avoiding dirt. It grows UP through the mud and mire, reaching toward the light until it blooms spotless white. Mary’s lily reminds us that purity isn’t about perfection… it’s about continuously turning toward God’s light.
The Prayer
“Blessed Mother, I carry shame that feels too heavy. I’ve made choices that hurt others and myself, and I don’t know how to feel clean again. Through your pure heart, ask Jesus to wash away my guilt. Help me see myself as you see me… not defined by my worst moments, but redeemed by His love. Give me the courage to start fresh today, knowing that your Son’s mercy is new every morning. Amen.”
Practical Reflection
Your past doesn’t disqualify you from God’s love… it qualifies you for His mercy. The lily blooms white not because it was never dirty, but because it chose to grow toward the light.
Takeaway Mantra
“I am washed clean and worthy of love.”
Simple Action Step
Write down one thing you’ve been carrying guilt about. Then tear up the paper and say “Jesus, I give this to you” as you throw it away.
