The Honor and Integrity of the Mighty Tree
In the middle of a new housing development at the corner of Mechanicsburg and Silver
Roads, stands one very large and sprawling tree. The planners obviously had the
foresight to preserve this magnificent tree, not only for its beauty, but also for the
benefits it provides.
As you may remember from your 10 th grade biology class, trees take in carbon dioxide
and release life-giving oxygen in a miraculous and divine process known as
photosynthesis. Trees also provide shade from the sun and beautify the landscape.
Unfortunately, they are not afforded the care and respect they deserve. Construction
managers pay little attention to the value of these mighty trees as they are bulldozed
indiscriminately in what we call “progress.” These bold and beautiful trees are
defenseless against the desires of humankind in much the same way Jesus allowed
himself to be sacrificed by His accusers. He could have easily risen up and destroyed
all of them, but he willingly honored His Father’s master plan, so that once again, we
would benefit.
Ironically, a tree would be an unwitting partner in this plan, serving as the raw material
for the cross on which Jesus would be sacrificed, but in an unexpected way. The tree
would perhaps offer its biggest benefit in helping to carry out God’s plan for salvation.
Today, when I think of a large, strong, flourishing tree, I think of our God who provides
shelter from the wind and refuge from the storm. The next time you pass one of those
stately trees, think of the provider and sustainer in our life — the incredibly strong,
rooted, and immovable force, who was willing to give up His life for us.