In a corner of the church grounds, a somewhat rare camellia is in bloom.
It is a deep crimson camellia called Bokuhan Tsubaki.
The camellia, Camellia, is an evergreen tree that blooms from winter to early spring.
It has long been loved by people in Japan.
Bokuhan Tsubaki has a slightly distinctive form.
Its petals open widely, and in the center a cluster of stamens has transformed into petal-like shapes.
The tree in our church bears flowers that are deep crimson not only on the outer petals, but also in the center, giving the whole blossom a calm and unified color.
The character “Boku” (朴) carries the meaning of something simple and unadorned.
And “Han-tsubaki” refers to a style of bloom that lies somewhere between a single and a double camellia, where the flower opens gently and naturally.
Perhaps, then, Bokuhan Tsubaki can be thought of as
a camellia that blooms in its natural, unpretentious form.
In our daily lives, we often carry many roles,
as if wearing layers of armor.
Before we realize it,
we may find ourselves drifting away from our true selves.
Yet the Lord quietly invites us, saying,
“You may come just as you are.”
Before God, we do not need to adorn ourselves.
We are allowed to stand in our natural, honest selves.
Today again, the Bokuhan Tsubaki in the church garden
has opened another new flower.
Looking up to the Cross.
