“For you acquired new creation life which is continually being renewed into the likeness of the One who created you; giving you the full revelation of God.” Colossians 3:10 TPT
The ground rejected my neighbors attempt to grow one. Yet for some reason my 4′ weeping willow plant decided to take root in the rocky soil on our side of the fence. It’s been approx. 24 yrs since that day. Our tree has brought me and my family much beauty, shade, and happiness over the years…until last summer.
I started noticing a lot of dead branches in the tree. I discovered termites had been feasting on its beauty. How did this happen? Simply not paying close attention was my answer to my self-asked question.
Once I finally did take notice, I quickly learned how to treat the tree. Unfortunately, several branches needed to come down causing the outward shape and appearance of what we once cherished and enjoyed to be no more.
It’s been a year since the “new odd shaped” tree was treated. Recently, Annette and I were viewing the tree from a distance. I told her that our weeping willow may need to come down due to the death that was visible. As we talked we began to walk…we walked closer…we looked closer…made time to pay closer attention.
We took time to see beyond what my mind had thought and my words had spoken and we made a new discovery….NEW LIFE. Annette was the first to notice it. On a limb that I thought was dying, several new bright green branches were growing. Life was breathing among the dead.
From the tree bark shell of what once was, emerges a new beginning.
What about my shell and your shell? Our shells are something that defines who we were…that made us into what we are today. Old shells start to dry up and rot without our noticing. A slow fading process.
A process of not paying enough attention to stop the direction it’s heading in until it’s too late…like termites. Or is it too late? Do the termites in our lives mean it’s all over?
A weeping willow tree is known as a tree that gives hope. It’s been said that they give a sense of belonging and safety. Because of their unique flexibility, they generate the ability to let go of any pain or suffering that might come their way. They are able to withstand high winds without limbs snapping.
What I thought was dying was coming back to life…but isn’t that the way it’s suppose to work for us all? From ashes to beauty…from life to death and life boomer-ranging back again….a weeping willow kind-of mourning into joy?
A new sunrise is breaking over the
horizon and it’s a new beginning!
What we think is dead can change by re-thinking that it is alive.
Faith comes by believing…and the true eye opening experience is when we actually see evidence of a new beginning with our own eyes.
You and I have an opportunity to see vibrant fresh greenness coming out of what looks dried up and (at times) feels dried up within us. If we are willing, you and I can see glimpses of hope beginning to take shape within the flexibility of our own capabilities.
So now we believe…and we start to see…and now we begin to declare.
”Kind words are like honey – sweet to the soul and healthy to the body”.
Proverbs 16:24 NLT
“Your words are so powerful that they will kill or give life”.
Proverbs 18: 21a
I had been cursing the tree to death with not only my thoughts but with my words. So now Annette and I stand beside our tree and speak out loud (which demonstrates power, authority, and boldness) in the face of evil termites and death. We speak life and newness. We thank God for our weeping willow’s history and for it’s future. Even a tree likes to hear good things spoken to it.
A couple of weeks ago, I went to pay some closer attention to our tree. I still found a few dead branches hanging on, but I also saw more vibrant green branches than I would have imagined…
“New creation of life
which is continually being renewed”.
It may not appear to be the same tree it once was….but are any…..and are we? For our appearance should be taking us from glory to glory….being renewed as we go even if we don’t see it.
You and I have a choice. If we can believe it…and have the blessing of actually seeing it…then we should declare it.
Our new sunrise is waiting.
Lingering Thoughts For You
Is there something in your life that you need to pay closer attention to? Realize that no matter how much time may remain, there is still life to experience if you’ll believe and be proactive in addressing your need.
Don’t let the things of this world (termites) dictate your future. Look for the small ordinary positives and thank God for them. Giving thanks will cause them to grow into extraordinaries.
Join me in prayer…..“Almighty God, thank you for Your wonderful creation of life. Thank you that this life You give continues to be renewed over & over. Thank you for the power You have given us through Your Son and Holy Spirit. We speak against the evil things that try to destroy us. We declare life, blessings, and on-going glimpses of Your glory moving us closer and closer to being more like You. In Jesus name, Amen.”