In the Bible, Jesus often tells us parables about animals and nature to get us to think about our human nature and our relationship with Him. Consider a simple, big old tree—even it can speak to us about our personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Photo credit by Brian Yap under Creative Commons License (BY-NC/2.0)
Envision the big, sturdy trunk of a tree—representing Jesus—the firm and solid foundation. From the trunk grow many branches—you and me and all of us—which eventually produce many beautiful colorful leaves. Each leaf—each of us—reflects the beauty of its source—Jesus—to all who see them.
Consider how the leaves and branches get their nutrition in order to grow more—from the roots and trunk. As Christians, our main source—Jesus and Scripture—are our major supply of growth. Without this life-giving supply from the roots and trunk, the branches couldn’t survive—they—we—can’t make it on our own.
Photo by photosbyflick under Creative Commons License (BY-NC/2.0)
Once in a while, a branch or two gets out of hand a little and grows the wrong way. When this happens, the branch may need pruning to shape it up. Don’t we sometimes get that way too?
At times, storms may come along, shaking the branches and leaves, but they will survive if their grip is tight to the source—the trunk. We, too, will survive the storms and trials of life if our grip is tight to our source—Jesus. The storms will eventually pass away—and all will be calm again.
“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up by Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” Colossians 2:6-7
overflowing with Thankfulness that is the color of our leaf even in the drought the colors are all the brighter as we stand firm in the faith ~ Good analogy there Christine
Amen, Reenie! Thanks for sharing.
Beautiful posts. I love trees and nature, and how the world around us was crafted to teach us about it’s creator. Isn’t that incredible?! I think so 🙂
Indeed, Stefanie! Thanks for sharing and visiting!
Sometimes (especially after losing John) I get very sad thinking that we are like a leaf on a tree and that our time here is so short. We are here for a “season” and then our time here on earth is over….and in a way that is true. But if we are a born-again believer we are also like a needle on an evergreen. We will never truly die and Christ will never leave us. We will never be separated from our true living source!
So very true, Carol! Thanks for sharing that great analogy too!
I do love the Fall with all it’s beautiful colors! Even though we know winter is coming, ugh! Each season has a purpose! I love to remember that God will supply all our needs no matter what season of life we are in. We must hold on to Him our source of strength when times are difficult. His light shines ever brighter through us as we continue to grow in our faith.
I agree, Mrs. Maiorana! Thanks for your thoughts.