Greetings @celester07 ,

You have given us something to think about today...and on a Sunday..what an apt subject.....the Crown of Christ...the Crown of Thorns which brings to mind the Cross.

This plant is as you say....'beautiful and durable' as Christ is and was on the Cross.

Romans 5.8 ..But God demonstrated His love toward us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died as a substitute for us.
and Ephesians 2.8,9 For by Grace are you saved through faith and that not of yourselves, it is a gift from God, not of works lest anyone should boast.

It is faith alone in Christ alone for eternal salvation.

Thank you for opportunity to speak on these things through your lovely post and photographs. ^__^

Kind Regards,

Bleujay