Black Lovage

I found this plant somewhat hard to identify, and even now I am not entirely certain I am correct. I think it is Black Lovage and I found it growing on the cliffs about Scarborough Castle, with its yellow-green flowers melding into the riot of spring’s fresh growth. It was the pleasant smell that elicited my attention. During winter, very few floral fragrances greet the nostril; spring is heralded by more than green leaves, but green flowers and their comely scent.

Paul tells the Corinthians:

For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. (2:2:15)

Though we Christians appear bland and unimpressive at best, God the Father savours our Christ-like fragrance. Clothed with His righteousness, moulded into His image and conformed to His will, all the beauty of Jesus wafts ahead of us to the Father’s throne. The sinful woman of Luke chapter 7 might have dowsed Him with her fragrant oil, but He drenched her with the fragrance of His spotless righteousness. What great loveage.