Trees and Christians

I’m not quite middle age yet but it’s creeping up on me. I’m not sure what would be more of a sign that you’re getting older than an interest in trees. I’ve tried planting several trees recently in a place where there aren’t any so that probably has something to do with it as well. I think that as we age, we gain an appreciation for time. There’s a saying that goes, “The best time to plant a tree was 15 years ago, the second-best time is today.” Another Greek proverb states, “A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.”

I’ve planted several of the same type trees in the same soil. A few have grown significantly, others slowly, and a few have died. Same species, same soil, but different growth rates. The fact is every tree is different. I’ve never thought about it until recently, but trees and Christians have a lot in common. As Christians we all grow and mature differently. Spiritually, some of us will grow quickly, others slowly, and unfortunately during trying times some will wither and die.

Jeremiah says in 17:7-8, “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose hope is the Lord. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, and will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit.”

I’ve gained a deep respect for mature trees. They have seen many seasons and endured it all. Revelation tells us of a tree whose shade I hope we will all be able to sit under one day. John says in Revelation 21-22 that there is a heavenly city with a pure river of life and in the middle of its street on either side of the river, the tree of life and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.

As Christians, we have to plant trees in whose shade we will never sit, but we first must ourselves be like trees that are planted by the water, the living water that is Jesus Christ.

The best time to give your life to Christ was 15 years ago, the next best time is today.

- Caleb Bowen

#MaysvilleMessenger