“For in the true
nature of things, if we rightly consider, every green tree is far more glorious
than if it were made of gold and silver.”
— Martin Luther
A tree is truly a wonder of God’s creation. Trees are a great source of joy for me. No
matter their size or shape, I delight in their steadfast presence and beauty.
As I learn more about what gifts trees provide to our earth to sustain its
health, to protect humans and to provide homes for the world’s plants and
animals, I am grateful for all that trees do for our world and for human
survival.
Trees also offer
emotional and spiritual sustenance.
Being in woods amongst the trees can bring peace and calm to a troubled
mind or heart. A tree can open us to a
sense of connection with all of nature and to the Divine. A tree expresses beauty, strength,
flexibility and rootedness. It provides
protection and sustenance. A tree is
certainly glorious!
I imagine this palm
tree being one of many where Mary and Joseph might have rested on their journey
to Bethlehem. It would have offered some
shade and a backrest for a weary traveller - a welcome reprieve. Perhaps it provided some fruit for
eating. The tree would ‘say’ to Mary and
Joseph, “You are welcome here, my gifts of shade and support are freely
given”. It would not distinguish amongst
people as to who was allowed to rest there.
Anyone could share in its gifts.
At this Advent
time, this time of waiting and reflection, it is good to remember the
interconnectedness of all life and how each being - whether plant, animal, tree
or human - has a unique gift to offer and share. And like the tree that shared its gift of
shade and protection with Mary and Joseph, we can remind ourselves to share our
love - God’s love- unconditionally with everyone, knowing that we are all part
of God’s creation.
Compassionate God,
creator and sustainer of All, we give thanks for this wonderful world. We give thanks for the opportunity to live
your Love by sharing our gifts with others. We ask that you give us the
strength to listen and watch for those opportunities and the courage to show
your Love in our actions. Amen.
----Carolyn Humphreys
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