That tree is dead.
It should be taken out.
Cut down.
Destroyed.
It mars the landscape.
Is an unsightly distraction from the beauty that surrounds it.
Then—
a whisper rises in my spirit.
“Oh, but you’re wrong.
Its towering, leafless branches offer a resting place for all in flight.
A place to perch and gain renewed perspective.
A lookout for all that seek and need provision for the journey.
No, it’s not dead.
Its usefulness remains for all who see its towering presence.
All who have a heart to receive its age-old beauty.
No, it’s not dead.
It still stands.
Stripped of all outward adornment,
But—
closer to heaven than the rest.”
A beautiful reminder to look past the initial, outward appearance. Thank you.
Thank you, Claudette. We miss so much, but God is faithful to reveal so many things to us if we will just slow down and listen. I’m happy you were blessed.
Thought provoking as I contemplate nursing home patients and my mother’s scrapped clean countenance as she prepared to enter heaven.
My heart goes out to you in your loss, Jeanette. I’ve walked that difficult road. Many lessons there. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
Enjoyed the read! Even though the tree may no longer be living, life still exists inside it:
Fungus,
insects,
possibly a cavity for nesting.
Others live because of its death. (hey that could preach)!
Yes. It DOES preach! Thank you, Ben. Happy you were blessed and took the time to comment.
This is such a good way to look at this. The back of our property has quite a few dead and dying trees, which we aren’t removing. The woodpeckers are plentiful here because of it. Other birds and animals find food and hiding spots that they might not otherwise have. That area is quite a wild mess, but as limbs fall, creatures on the ground benefit also. Yes, it’s all useful. It reminds me of that picture book, The Giving Tree.
Hi Dottie. Thanks for commenting. It sounds as if you understand completely. God wastes nothing. Bless you.
I love your perspective ma’am. We all have value in God’s eyes. And He can use us in ways we might never think of if we will only allow Him. I normally think of dead trees (of which we had a lot here when we moved to TX after the severe drought) of broken fences if I don’t remove them promptly. Perhaps I’ll think twice now. God’s blessings Ms. Starr.
Thank you for commenting. JD. You are so right. We have no clue what God will do through our simple obedience. I’m blessed that you were blessed. Thanks for sharing your heart. And I pray your arm is healing well.