Californian Poppy

Growing at our chapel’s rear is a Californian Poppy. It was adopted as that sunny state’s official flower back in 1903 and features on the many welcome signs upon crossing the state line. Quite how so exotic a flower ended up in our rain-soaked clay I cannot be certain. As one of wettest and greyest counties of northern England, the contrast between Lancashire and California is striking. According to Healthline,

Supplements containing California poppy extract, including tinctures and capsules, are said to have calming effects. Proponents claim that these supplements promote relaxation, reduce mild pain, and enhance sleep.

I suspect that the state of California with its endless sunshine, high standards of living and vast expanses of unspoilt wilderness may offer a tonic to weary folk. Until we reach heaven’s gate, a great many of us seek relaxation, mild pain relief and better sleep; observing pretty flowers swaying in the wind assists me in that respect. Yet better is the prospect of being with the Lord Jesus, forever, a wonderful state which is never more than few heartbeats away. Future bliss is present comfort. 

There remains therefore a rest for the people of God. Hebrews 4:9, NKJV

Heaven will be better than balmy California and greenest Lancashire combined.