Trees. (Part 1)

I love trees. I love planting them, I love admiring them, and I am disturbed at the rate we are cutting them down.  As a New Zealander I grew up with an appreciation of the Kauri tree. Apart from the deep cultural and spiritual significance to the Maori people of New Zealand, it is a magnificent and iconic tree that is one of the longest-living tree species on Earth, with some individuals estimated to be over 2,000 years old. Its longevity reminds us of the wisdom and strength that can be gained through the passage of time. In our spiritual lives, we can look to the wisdom of those who have come before us and draw inspiration from their experiences and teachings. Just as the NZ Kauri tree has stood the test of time, we can learn from the wisdom of the ages and apply it to our journey. The ancient prophetic word of scripture has stood the test of time for milleniums and will guide us right to the end of all things.

On several occasions I have visited Kauri forests and stood in awe at the great size and strength of these trees. Its straight trunk and robust branches speak of resilience in the face of adversity caused by the battering’s of centuries. As we navigate the challenges of life, we can draw inspiration from the Kauri tree’s resilience, learning to stand firm in our faith and face challenges with strength and determination. It reminds us that even in the harshest conditions, we can find the inner strength to endure and thrive. Paul talks about how we have, “the glorious, unlimited resources He will empower you with [for] inner strength through His Spirit.” Eph 3:16 NLT.

The NZ Kauri tree is a vital component of the ecosystem it inhabits, providing shelter, food, and support for a wide variety of organisms. It exemplifies the interconnectedness of all living beings. In our spiritual journey, this tree encourages us to recognize our connection to nature and cultivate a sense of stewardship and harmony with the environment. By appreciating and caring for the natural world, we honour God’s creation and understand our role as custodians of the Earth.

The towering presence of the Kauri tree, with its immense size and majestic beauty, evoke a sense of awe and wonder. It reminds us of the transcendence and grandeur of the divine. Just as the Kauri tree reaches towards the sky, we are invited to seek a higher understanding of ourselves and our maker.

In the first psalm God’s people are compared to trees that are planted by a river. Psalm 1 is short in its size but full of length and strength as to its matter. There are two portraits in this psalm, represented by the two stanzas. 1-3 and 4-6. V6 presents a key to understanding this Psalm: “For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly shall perish.” In this Psalm, the way of the righteous and the way of the ungodly are contrasted.

This psalm may well be called the Christian’s guide, for it discovers the quicksands where the wicked sink down into destruction and the firm ground on which God’s people tread to eternity. Jesus, in His momentous sermon on the mount said, “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it.  For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.” Matt.7:13-14 NASB.

I have some more stories of great trees to follow.