by Victoria Heinecke

The light of the world brings healing and peace.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.”
Revelation 22:2b English Standard Version (ESV)

In the twenty years that I’ve lived in this neighborhood, I’ve driven past this tree countless times. From the car, it’s unremarkable, looking like many of the trees that line this street. However, on a walk last week, I noticed that removing a branch had created the appearance of an eye in the trunk. For a moment I stared at the tree, as it appeared to gaze back at me.

Soon this tree, like many of its brethren, will awaken from its winter slumber. It will seek the sun, not with eyes, but with new leaves that will turn towards the light for its life. Without that light, the tree would wither and die.

We are living in chaotic times. Sheltering in place can be agitating for some people, who are accustomed to mobility and the perception of freedom that comes with it. Frustrated, it’s not long before the agitation itself becomes paramount. In times like this, it’s difficult to see the forest for the trees.

God is with us in the midst of the chaos. He sees the entire forest – past, present and future. When control has been wrested from our grasp, surrendering that control to God brings peace. It can be comforting to realize that, in the midst of the struggle, God continues to protect us as we turn to him.

He sent Jesus, who has already conquered the darkness, to save us from eternal death.

“I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness.”
John 12:46 ESV

Jesus assures us to take heart, that he has already overcome the world! (John 16:33) May we see the tree in the forest, and follow its example. Let us turn our face towards the light and seek comfort in the loving arms of Jesus.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado