Man vs. Tree

Posted by Penitent on November 18, 2009 at 8:00 AM

We can learn much from a tree that loses its leaves, only to grow new ones in the spring. These trees contain many sturdy roots, and large powerful branches. This entire system of roots, trunk, and branches provides almost everything necessary for the infantile spring growth. As the leaves grow and mature, they rely on light to perform necessary work for the rest of the tree. They do this day in and day out, rain or shine.

These leaves will eventually begin to change color, showing signs of aging. Throughout this aging process, the leaves will transition through an infinite number of colors. During this period of their lives, they seem to do only one thing – one very important thing – glorify the very tree that has given them life.

We would all do well to live our lives so completely in service of our creator, relying entirely on His light, in unity with all those around us, living only to serve and glorify Him.

Though this tree is a beautiful symbol and we can relate to it in many ways by looking at it deeply, there are obviously far more differences between the life of a tree and the life of man. The leaves on a tree, while quite beautiful, are not particularly unique. Each looks very much the same and each is called to perform essentially the same task, for approximately the same length of time. Once the task of a leaf is complete, its life is also complete. It has no chance of rising to new life.

All life is precious, but not equal. Though we will pass from this life one by one, like the autumn leaves, we must be thankful that we can look forward to life beyond this one.