I discovered a beautiful old oak tree on my daily walk. It must be very old as it's about 50 feet high - maybe 2 to 3 hundred years old. I couldn't help thinking about what this tree had seen in it's long life. All that history and maybe personal stories of people who had sheltered under it, or had picnics there, maybe even had a first kiss.... And then all the weather it has withstood and yet it is still there, strong and healthy.
I guess there will come a time when it dies, it can't live forever and we can't rely on it to be there always. It got me thinking about God and how He's always there and always will be. In the storms of life he will shelter us under his branches, in the good times He will rejoice with us. He never leaves us or forsakes us. His love and strength are forever.
Liking that thought... I like the idea of God as my great big gnarly tree sheltering me. :)
ReplyDeleteAnd I LOVE trees, especially the great big old gnarly ones! When I am on holiday (very soon!) I shall make it a priority to look at more trees! :D
...Actually, I really will! :D
You reminded me of the following poem by Alfred, Lord Tennyson:
ReplyDeleteTHE OAK
Live thy Life,
Young and old,
Like yon oak,
Bright in spring,
Living gold;
Summer-rich
Then; and then
Autumn-changed
Soberer-hued
Gold again.
All his leaves
Fall'n at length,
Look, he stands,
Trunk and bough
Naked strength.
:)