Rosebay Willowherb

Rosebay willowherb is a common sight along railways and bridleways, its tall spikes of flowers swaying in the breeze. Yet before 1914, it was generally restricted to woodlands. It was only the deforestations around the wars (when more land was needed for agriculture) and the burnt-out bombsites of our towns courtesy of the Luftwaffe, that this plant began colonising so successfully. Indeed, it is often called bombweed in Southern England, and fireweed in America, for its tendency to grow in previously damaged ground.

Where there has been damage, war, persecution, hatred and devastation- may the gospel thus be taken. Where nothing else grows, may Christ’s message of hope and faith sprout among the rubble and ashes.

You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness. Ps 30:11