I don’t have any symbolic tattoos but if I got one it would have to be of a tree. I wouldn’t say I’m super outdoorsy or Mrs. Camper McCamperson, but trees tell me to:
-be rooted. For me that’s being rooted in God’s Word. I endeavor to read and apply it daily.
-grow. Despite my growing collection of gray hair, I still need to see, learn, and do new things.
-grow bark. Rather than ruffle or wilt at every slight, a protective outer covering will strengthen me.
-spread my branches. I need to share (my time, energy, money and spiritual gifts) with others.
-be flexible. I should weather life’s storms, bend under pressure, and grow supple when stressed.
After a recent snowfall, I drove through the woods near our home and the trees spoke to me again. The evergreens caught most of the snow in their branches; the ground around their trunks remained brown with dropped needles. In contrast, the bare branches of the deciduous trees were dusted in snow and the ground around their trunks was a blanket of white. The sun sparkled everywhere, but the deciduous trees were more beautiful surrounded in white. And so, the trees have also taught me to:
-allow life’s experiences in. The cold, the warm, the joy, the grief make like more beautiful.
Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.
Ephesians 3:17 NLT
Very nice. I really like this!