THE TREE

5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.  1 John 1:5 (KJV)

 

I wrote this devotion a few years back when on vacation in the mountains.  We got a very nice place to stay but we only had a view of the parking lot.  One morning I had gone down to a small area that had a table where I could sit and think and write.  Here is what I wrote: 

            I can’t see the mountains, but I can see a tree.  Still the handiwork of God is in full view.  Where we are located today the view of the mountains were blocked; so for the most part, I settled for observing this one particular tree.  This wasn’t so bad because it helped me realize some things that are quite important. 

            First, when looking at the mountains, one fails to notice the individuality of the trees.  This tree (the topic of my story) was equivalent in height to a four story condo.  It provided comfort and shade to all who would come beneath it.  The ground underneath its branches was carpeted with orange and yellow leaves.  Its fruit of acorns provided immediate and future meals for squirrels making frequent visits to the tree.  The beautiful autumn coat (its leaves) brought pleasure to many who would gaze at its radiance.

            Second, the shape and appearance were influenced by various factors.  One factor was its nature.  You could tell it was an oak tree by its leaves, its bark, and the way its branches had grown.  No matter what, these things would not change.  Yet another factor influenced this tree and that was its environment.  Other trees close by caused the tree not to have many of the lower branches that it might have had otherwise.  The other trees also competed with my tree for sunlight and space.

            Another important lesson for me is that this tree had rare beauty just because of its position to the sun.  The morning sun caused it to have a gorgeous attraction while the evening sun gave it a totally different yet no less appealing beauty.  No matter where the position of the sun, as long as its light reached my tree, the tree was unusually splendid.

What is the message?  Do not put everyone in the same category.  The Fall Mountains may look golden but it you look closely, there are many trees. Some are evergreen, some are brown, and some are already bare; and yes many are yellow and gold, but all are different.  There was a reason why my tree was as it was, and there is a reason why you are as you are.  You have rare beauty, and that beauty will shine if only you remain in the Light of The Lord.

 

Yours in Christ,

 

 

Brother Randy Burtram